Pityriasis rosea

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Pityriasis Rosea is a benign skin disorder characterized by an appearance of scaly, flat spots predominantly on the trunk and upper arms. It is usually mild and self-limiting, though it can cause significant discomfort in some cases. The disease is widely recognized for its distinctive "herald patch" and "Christmas tree" pattern of skin lesions.

Pityriasis rosea

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Pityriasis rosea is a relatively common, typically benign skin condition that predominantly affects the torso and upper arms.[1] The condition is characterized by the emergence of flat, scaly spots and is usually mild and self-limiting.

An introduction to dermatology (1905) Pityriasis rosea

Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]

A typical case of pityriasis rosea begins with a single, large round or oval "herald patch," which is usually followed within a week or two by a multitude of smaller spots appearing on the torso and upper arms.[2] These spots are typically pink or light brown, with a scaly surface. The rash may resemble a pine tree pattern, often referred to as a "Christmas tree" distribution.

Causes and Risk Factors[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of pityriasis rosea is not fully understood. Some studies suggest a viral etiology, specifically a human herpesvirus (HHV) 6 or 7, though this remains a topic of ongoing research.[3] It commonly occurs in individuals between the ages of 10 and 35 and is slightly more frequent in women than men. There is no significant association with seasons, although some studies report a higher incidence in spring and autumn.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of pityriasis rosea is usually made based on the characteristic appearance of the rash and its pattern on the body. In cases where the diagnosis is uncertain, skin biopsy or further tests might be performed to rule out other conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or syphilis.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Pityriasis rosea typically resolves on its own without treatment in six to eight weeks. However, treatments can help alleviate any itching or discomfort. These may include topical steroids, oral antihistamines, and in some cases, phototherapy.[4] It is important for patients to understand that the condition is not a sign of a serious underlying disease and is not contagious.

See also[edit | edit source]

Pityriasis rosea Resources
  1. ↑ Chuh A, Chan H, Zawar V. Pityriasis rosea. In: Evidence Based Dermatology. London: BMJ Books; 2003.
  2. ↑ Chuh A, Zawar V, Lee A. Atypical presentations of pityriasis rosea: case presentations. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2005.
  3. ↑ Drago F, Broccolo F, Rebora A. Pityriasis rosea: an update with a critical appraisal of its possible herpesviral etiology. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2009.
  4. ↑ Wong E, Eftekhari S, Leshin B, White WL. Pityriasis rosea: an important papulosquamous disorder. Int J Dermatol. 2013.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD