Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis rosea is a mild, but common, skin condition, characterized by ovoid, scaly, pink rash. It can last from one to three months and usually leaves no lasting marks.

What causes pityriasis rosea?

The cause of pityriasis rosea is not known, but it is commonly believed to be caused by a virus or bacteria. Some patients may have a cold before the rash. It is usually seen in children, adolescents, and young adults. Most people with the rash are 10 to 35 years of age.

The condition is more prevalent in spring and fall.

What are the symptoms of pityriasis rosea?

Pityriasis rosea usually starts with a pink or tan oval area (sometimes called a herald or mother patch) on the chest, stomach, or back. The main patch usually is followed (after a couple of weeks) by smaller pink or tan patches elsewhere on the body, usually the back, neck, arms, and legs. The scaly rash typically lasts between four to eight weeks and will disappear without treatment.

Symptoms may include: itching (sometimes severe), and less comonly, body aches and fatigue. However, each child may experience symptoms differently.

The symptoms of pityriasis rosea may resemble other skin conditions or medical problems. Always consult your child's doctor for a diagnosis.

How is pityriasis rosea diagnosed?

Pityriasis rosea usually is diagnosed based on a medical history and physical examination of your child. The rash of pityriasis rosea is unique, and the diagnosis can be made on the basis of a physical examination alone. However, your child's physician may blood tests to rule out other conditions that might resemble pityriasis rosea.

Treatment for pityriasis rosea

Specific treatment for pityriasis rosea will be determined by your child's doctor based on:

• Your child's age, overall health, and medical history
• Extent of the rash
• Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• Expectations for the course of the rash
• Your opinion or preference

The goal of treatment for pityriasis rosea is to relieve symptoms associated with the condition, such as itching. There is no cure for pityriasis rosea. The condition will resolve spontaneously. Treatment will be determined by your child's doctor based on the severity of the condition and may include one, or more, of the following:

• Medicated lotions and creams (to soothe the itching)
• Medications by mouth (to soothe the itching)
• Cool baths with or without oatmeal (to soothe the itching)
• Cool compresses (to soothe the affected skin)