Pityriasis Rosea
What causes pityriasis rosea?
Pityriasis rosea (PR) is a common, harmless skin disease. It consists of a rash that looks like many oval salmon-colored patches on the trunk. Typically, a rim of scale is seen around the oval. The rash is often asymptomatic, though it can sometimes itch. The cause is a viral agent, and we know that:
1. PR is not contagious.
2. PR clears up in about six weeks, sometimes a little longer. When clear, the skin returns to its normal appearance. There will be no scars although slightly darker or lighter (pigmented) areas may remain for some time.
3. PR is not related to foods, medicines, or nervous emotional upsets.
4. PR always disappears by itself.
5. A larger, single scaling spot, called a Herald patch, often appears 1-20 days before the general rash. The rash covers mainly the trunk but may spread to the thighs, upper arms, and neck. Pityriasis rosea usually avoids the face, although sometimes a few spots spread to the cheeks.
6. Second attacks (episodes) of pityriasis rosea are rare.
Treatment
Nature always cures this disorder–sometimes slowly. Treatment doesn’t speed the cure. The rash of pityriasis rosea can be irritated by soap, so bathe or shower with plain water. This rash makes the skin dry; it helps to put a thin coating of moisturizing cream on your freshly dried skin after a shower or bath.
If the rash itches, treatment with a mild hydrocortisone lotion usually brings prompt relief. The cortisone does not cure pityriasis rosea; it will only make you more comfortable while getting over the rash.
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