Pityriasis RoseaPronounced: pit-IH-rye-ah-sis row-SEE-ah
by
Marjorie Montemayor-Quellenberg, MA DefinitionPityriasis rosea is a common skin rash. The rash is scaly and reddish-pink. It may first appear on the back, stomach, or chest. The rash can then spread to the neck, arms, and legs. CausesThe cause of pityriasis rosea is unknown. It may be caused by viruses or a certain medication, such as antibiotics or heart medications. Risk FactorsPityriasis rosea occurs most often in children and young adults. It is more likely to occur in the spring and fall. SymptomsBefore a rash appears, the first symptoms may be similar to the common cold. They may include:
When the rash appears, symptoms may include:
DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Pityriasis rosea can usually be diagnosed by looking at your rash. You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in skin disorders (dermatologist) if the rash is difficult to identify. Testing is usually not needed, but your bodily fluids and tissues may be tested if the diagnosis is uncertain. This can be done with:
TreatmentThere is no cure for pityriasis rosea. The rash may last for several months. It will usually go away on its own. Treatment may be able to relieve some of the symptoms, such as itching. Treatment options include the following: MedicationsMedications to relieve itching and inflammation caused by pityriasis rosea include:
Other Treatments
PreventionThere is no known way to prevent pityriasis rosea. It does not spread from person to person. It is not likely to recur. This rash does not leave permanent marks. However, some people with dark skin may have some skin discoloration. This will usually fade with time. RESOURCES:American Academy of Dermatology http://www.aad.org American Osteopathic College of Dermatology http://www.aocd.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca Health Canada https://www.canada.ca References:Pityriasis rosea. American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed December 21, 2017. Pityriasis rosea. American Family Physician website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated April 2014. Accessed December 21, 2017. Pityriasis rosea. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed December 21, 2017.
Pityriasis rosea. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115956/Pityriasis-rosea
. Updated August 20, 2015. Accessed December 21, 2017.
Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Kari Kassir, MD Last Updated: 12/20/2014 | |
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