Definition

Pityriasis rosea is a common skin rash. The rash is scaly and reddish-pink. It may first appear on the back, stomach, or chest. It may then spread to the neck, arms, and legs.

Causes

The cause of this problem is not known. It may be triggered by a viral infection.

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in people who are 10 to 35 years of age. Pregnant women may be at higher risk.

Symptoms

A person often has cold-like symptoms before the rash appears. These may be:

• Lack of energy
• Fever
• Headache
• Sore throat

The rash starts with one large, oval, and scaly patch on the back, stomach, armpit, or chest. In time, a person may also have:

• Rose-colored patches that may have scaly edges
• Mild to severe itching
• Itching that gets worse when the body overheats, such as with exercise or after a shower
• Skin redness or swelling

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the skin. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.

If the diagnosis is unclear, you may need to see a doctor who treats the skin. A sample of the skin may be tested. This can be done with a biopsy.

Treatment

The rash usually goes away on its own in about six weeks. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms during this time. Choices are:

• Supportive care, such as warm oatmeal baths and using moisturizer
• Medicines to ease itching, such as:
  • Antiviral medicines
  • Antibiotics
  • Antihistamines
  • Corticosteroids
• Ultraviolet light therapy to speed healing

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.