Edit page | Page history | Printable version

Definition

noun

(1) A long narrow dark streak running along the midline of the abdomen, from the umbilicus to the pubis

(2) Linea alba that is hyperpigmented temporarily during pregnancy

Supplement

During pregnancy, linea nigra is one of the many transient hyperpigmentation effects due to amplified levels of circulating estrogen.

Also called:

• black line

Compare:

• linea alba

See also:

• linea