Pityriasis Rosea

Medically reviewed by The Dermatologists and written by Dr. Alexander Börve

Pityriasis rosea is benign and common with school-age children and young adults. It may be caused by a viral infection and is most likely to spread in spring and autumn. The disease often disappear without treatment within six weeks, but sometimes it can take up to three to six months. The skin diseases is not contagious.

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Symptoms

The condition usually starts off with red, scaly patches of skin called a “herald patch.” The rash may have a pale and thin center, followed by multiple smaller oval sized, rose-colored perimeter rashes that are about 1-2 cm in size. The patches may be 2-6 cm.

It usually begins anywhere on the torso, upper arms or thighs. After one to two weeks, most people experience fewer rashed on the affected areas. It is rare for it to appear on the face. Other symptoms include peeling and itching.

What can I do?

If you experience itching, you can try putting on prescription cortisone cream. You can also lubricate the skin by applying moisturizer and reduce the soap usage to reduce the itch.

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Should I seek medical care?

It is usually unnecessary to seek medical care, because the rash often disappears without treatment. However, you should contact your healthcare provider if the itching is bearable and not relieved after self-treatment, or if you are unsure whether the rashes are caused by pityriasis rosea.

Treatment

The rosea rash usually goes away without any treatment, leaving no trace. The rash lasts about 6 to 8 weeks before it disappears. In rare cases, it lasts for 2 weeks or longer than 8 weeks. If the itching is unbearable, your dermatologist may prescribe a medicine or light treatment to help relieve the itch.

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Source:

American Academy of Dermatology. Pityriasis Rosea. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/rashes/pityriasis-rosea

U.S. National Library of Medicine. Pityriasis Rosea. Available at: https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000871.htm