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What is pityriasis Rosea?
Spring and fall are the peak seasons to see pityriasis rosea (PR), a common but little known skin rash. PR is now believed to be caused by one of the Herpes virus group. Pityriasis rosea is probably spread from coughing and sneezing but is not very contagious since few family members ever develop the rash.
What does the rash look like?
The eruption of pityriasis rosea typically arises after an upper respiratory infection type of illness. Most, but not all patients will develop a “herald patch” or “mother spot”. This lesion is usually larger than the others and can precede the development of the rash by days or a few weeks. The rash appears as salmon pink oval patches which are slightly scaly on the chest and back. A few lesions may also develop on the extremities, neck and face. This rash can have a somewhat different appearance in patients with darker complexions.
How is it treated?
In all, PR usually lasts approximately 6 weeks. There are occasional patients who have a longer course but this is unusual. Prescription antivirals may be ordered by your dermatologist. Occasionally itching is the main complaint and treatment is aimed at controlling the itching with Benadryl, topical cortisone creams and Aveeno oatmeal baths . Blood tests may be performed by your physician since, in adults, the appearance of PR can be mimicked by secondary syphilis. Finally one form of psoriasis may mimic this condition so a small skin biopsy may rarely be needed.
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