Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis rosea is a rather common disease of the skin. It’s a form of rash that may last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the particular patient and the speed of treatment.

It appears more often in spring and fall, and it has a tendency to affect young people and teenagers, being really uncommon in people of more than 55-60 years old.

It leaves no permanent mark on the skin, except in rare cases in which dark-skinned people may develop dark brown spots.

Causes Of Pityriasis Rosea

The origin and cause of this disease are unknown. It is known, however, that this disease is not caused by bacterial or fungal infection. It is also not a sign of any internal disease, and it’s not caused by an allergic reaction. It is also known that this disease is not sexually transmitted.

Some studies show the possibility of this disease being the manifestation of a viral infection, more specifically Human Herpes Virus type 7, although these findings are not definitive.

Symptoms Of Pityriasis Rosea

Patients of pityriasis rosea present a skin rash that follows a distinctive pattern. In most cases, a single pink oval patch, usually called the “herald patch”, appears on the trunk, neck, upper arms or thighs. This patch resembles eczema.

More (smaller) patches appear on other areas of the body within one or two weeks. It is interesting to know that these patches rarely appear on the face. The patches’ healing process starts after 3-4 weeks, and usually they disappear after 7-15 weeks.

In a more severe form, the patches may seem to go away but actually reappear when the affected person performs a sustained physical activity. This type of pityriasis rosea often causes headaches and tiredness.

Treatment Of Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis rosea is treated with topical corticoids to stop itching. This type of medication is not recommended for pregnant women.
Sustained physical activity and hot baths should be avoided, being warm baths the recommended choice.

Anti-inflammatory medication and antibiotics are recommended for severe cases.

Prevention Of Pityriasis Rosea

As the causes of pityriasis rosea remain unclear, prevention should focus on avoiding exposure of the upper body skin to excessive heat, such as that resulting from extensive exercising with inadequate clothes.

Also, taking baths or showers that are too hot should be avoided.

Bookmarks
Bookmark This |