Pityriasis Rosea
Definition: Pityriasis rosea is a skin condition with bumps and scaling that affects children and young adults.
Signs: ● There may be mild signs such as headache, fever, malaise, sore throat, decreased appetite or aches prior to the rash in a minority of cases ● Peak age for Pityriasis rosea is in adolescence but it occurs in all ages in childhood ● 60-90% of people with Pityriasis rosea will have a “herald patch”, a smooth pink oval-shaped spot ranging from1/2 inch to 5 inches in diameter, usually found on the trunk or occasionally on the upper arm or thigh. This is sometimes mistaken as ringworm until the rest of the rash erupts. ● A symmetrical rash develops up to 21 days after the herald patch. Spots are ¼-1/2 inch pinkish to brown with a delicate scale along the edge. The spots may line up in a “Christmas tree” pattern on the torso. The face and scalp are usually not affected. Occasionally, there is a reverse pattern with spots mostly on the head and extremities. ● Itch is mild to moderate and decreases after the first week ● Spots resolve in 2-12 weeks
Cause ● Pityriasis rosea is not caused by bacteria or fungus ● A virus has been proposed but not proven to cause Pityriasis rosea. o Clusters of cases occur in communities o No definite contagious cause is identified
Testing ● Diagnosis is based upon the appearance of the rash. ● No testing is necessary
Treatment ● Resolves on its own, usually within 12 weeks. Rarely persist more than 5 months. ● Itch is treated with cortisone cream or oral antihistamine such as benadryl, Claritin or Zyrtec. ● Erythromycin (for its anti-inflammatory effect, not to kill bacteria) or UVB light therapy may be attempted in severe cases. ● Exposure to the sun is helpful
Reviewed 3/11, 11/13, 11/15
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