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Pityriasis rosea is a common type of skin rash seen in young adults.
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsPityriasis rosea is believed to be caused by a virus. It occurs most often in the fall and spring. Although pityriasis rosea may occur in more than one person in a household at a time, it is not thought to be highly contagious.
Attacks generally last 4 - 8 weeks. Symptoms may disappear by 3 weeks or last as long as 12 weeks. There is generally a single large patch (herald patch) followed several days later by a rash.
Symptoms- Itching of the lesions (mild to severe)
- Skin lesion or rash
- Centers have wrinkled (cigarette paper) appearance
- Lesions appears like a scale that is attached at the edges and loose at the center
- May follow cleavage lines or appear in a "Christmas tree" pattern
- May spread
- Oval plaque, papule, or macule
- Sharp border (edge)
- Starts with a single (herald) lesion followed several days later by more lesions
- Skin redness or inflammation
Your health care provider can usually diagnose pityriasis rosea by the way the rash looks. A blood test may be needed to rule out a form of syphilis, which can cause a similar rash. Occasionally, a skin biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
TreatmentIf symptoms are mild, no treatment may be needed.
Gentle bathing, mild lubricants or creams, or mild hydrocortisone creams may be used to soothe inflammation. Antihistamines, taken by mouth, may be used to reduce itching.
Moderate sun exposure or ultraviolet light treatment may help make the lesions go away more quickly. However, care must be taken to avoid sunburn.
Expectations (prognosis)Pityriasis rosea usually goes away within 6 - 12 weeks. It doesn't usually come back.
Calling your health care providerCall for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of pityriasis rosea.
ReferencesHabif TP. Psoriasis and other papulosquamous diseases. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2004: chap 8.
Lim HW. Eczemas, photodermatoses, papulosquamous (including fungal) diseases, and figurate erythemas. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 464.
What else can I help you with?
What medical condition begins with herald spot?
Pityriasis rosea
What does pityriasis rosea feel like?
In addition to pruritus, some patients have prodromal symptoms, which are warning symptoms that occur before the herald patch appears. Prodromal symptoms of pityriasis rosea may include fever
Can your 4 year old get Pityriasis Rosea?
Yes, it is possible for a 4-year-old to get pityriasis rosea, although it is more common in older children and adults. The cause of this skin condition is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to viral infections. If you suspect your child has pityriasis rosea, it is best to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Is pityriasis rosea hereditary?
Pityriasis rosea is not considered hereditary, as there is no strong evidence to suggest that it runs in families. The exact cause of this skin condition is still unclear, but it is thought to be related to viral infections, particularly human herpesvirus 6 and 7. While genetics may play a role in individual susceptibility to certain skin conditions, pityriasis rosea itself is generally not inherited.
What is the prognosis for pityriasis rosea?
Pityriasis rosea is a harmless, common skin problem. In most patients, the condition lasts only a matter of weeks; in some cases it can last longer (up to six months). The disease resolves completely without long-term effects.
What age group does Pityriasis rosea most commonly affect?
Pityriasis rosea most commonly affects individuals between the ages of 10 and 35, with a peak incidence in the late teens to early twenties. It is rare in children under 2 years old and adults over 60 years old.
Can pityriasis rosea spread to your face?
It says rarely, but I had several on my face and soars in my mouth as well.
Can mometasone furoate cream be used to treat pityriasis rosea?
Mometasone furoate cream is a topical corticosteroid that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate itching associated with various skin conditions. While it is not specifically indicated for treating pityriasis rosea, it may be used off-label to manage symptoms. However, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate diagnosis and treatment recommendations, as pityriasis rosea often resolves on its own without the need for medication.
I have hives on your neck forearms stomach scalp and back and really itchy for over a week now what is it?
Pityriasis Rosea possibly
How long does pityriasis rosea last?
spots, which may be itchy, last for 3-12 weeks. Symptoms rarely recur
Can drinking lots of water help pityriasis rosea?
Rosea is a very painful and embarrassing skin condition. Drinking water can help the condition, however, you will also need to listen to the advice of your doctor as well as eat healthy.
Can you exercise with pityriasis rosea?
Yes, you can generally exercise with pityriasis rosea, as the condition is not contagious and typically resolves on its own. However, it's important to listen to your body and avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or irritation to the affected skin. If you experience discomfort or if your symptoms worsen during exercise, it may be best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
