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Pityriasis Rosea - Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

What is Pityriasis Rosea ?

Pityriasis rosea is a common, harmless skin rash which occurs in young people. Its name means that the rash is scaly (pityriasis) and pink (rosea).

Pityriasis Rosea usually lasts for a month or so. Pityriasis Rosea is a relatively common skin rash that first presents with a solitary scaly patch, usually on the upper trunk, known as the Herald Patch.

Pityriasis rosea usually avoids the face, although sometimes a few spots spread to the cheeks. The oval patches follow the line of the ribs like a fir tree.

Causes of Pityriasis Rosea

The cause of pityriasis rosea is uncertain. Some doctors believe that pityriasis rosea is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Certain medicines also can cause this rash. Pityriasis rosea is not contagious, so people with this rash do not have to be kept away from other people.

Symptoms of Pityriasis Rosea

The symptoms appear, people experience preliminary sensations including fever , malaise, sore throat , or headache . Symptoms begin with a single, large round spot called a "herald patch" on the body, followed days or weeks later by slightly raised, scaly-edged round or oval pink-copper colored spots on the trunk and upper arms. Some of the common symptoms of pityriasis rosea are :-

• Skin redness or inflammation.
• The rash may spread to the upper thighs.
• Itching on the skin.
• The patches seem crinkly and loose in the centre.

Treatment of Pityriasis Rosea

The rash usually goes away on its own. No treatment can cure it, but medicine can help relieve the itching. Mild inflammation and itching can be relieved with antihistamine drugs or calamine lotion, zinc oxide, or other mild lubricants or anti-itching creams. Gentle, soothing strokes should be used to apply the ointments, since vigorous rubbing may cause the lesions to spread. Sometimes people with pityriasis rosea have to take steroid pills to clear up their rash.

Prevention for Pityriasis Rosea

• Moisturizing lotions may help soften the dryness.
• Avoid using soap as this can irritate the rash.
• Avoid sunburn.

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