Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis rosea is a common skin disease that appears as a rash that can last from several weeks to several months. It most often develops in the spring and the fall, and seems to favor adolescents and young adults generally in the age range of ten to forty years. It may last months longer when it occurs in this age group. Usually there are no permanent marks as a result of this disease. Sometimes this patch is mistaken as ringworm or eczema. Within a week or two more pink patches will occur on the body and on the arms and legs. These patches often form a pattern over the back resembling the outline of an evergreen tree with dropping branches. Patches may also appear on the neck and, rarely, on the face. Sometimes the disease can cause a more severe skin reaction. Physical activity, like jogging or running, or bathing in hot water may cause the rash to temporarily worsen or reappear. This condition is not a sign of any type of internal disease.

Signs and Symptoms

Pityriasis rosea, rash generally has the following characteristic features:

• The initial phase.  PR, typically begins with a large, slightly raised, scaly patch called the herald patch either on the back, chest or abdomen.
• Progression.  Smaller fine, scaly spots usually appear across your back, chest or abdomen in a pine-tree pattern a few days to a few weeks after the herald patch. Rarely, smaller spots may also appear on your arms, legs or face. The rash may itch.
• Color.  The rash of pityriasis rosea often is scaly and pink, but if you have darker skin, it may be gray, dark brown or even black.

Causes

• PR-like drug eruptions may be difficult to distinguish. Medication-induced eruptions have been reported with captopril, metronidazole, isotretinoin, penicillamine, levamisole, bismuth, gold, barbiturates, ketotifen, clonidine, and omeprazole. A single case has been reported with terbinafine.
• Certain vaccinations, such as the BCG vaccine or the diphtheria vaccine, have been reported to cause similar eruptions.
• Lesions are also thought to be increased in individuals with high stress levels.

Treatment
In case if the rash itches, the use of skin lotions and lubricants can be done to soothe itching. If symptoms are severe, anti-inflammatory medications may be used to relieve itching and reduce the rash. Some people may try other medications, such as antifungal, because the rash looks like ringworm. However, because pityriasis rosea is not caused by a fungus, these medications are not effective. Exposing the rash to sunlight may make it go away more quickly. However, exposing your skin to the sun too long can result in sunburn and increase your risk of skin cancer. In case the rash lasts for more than three months, then the health professional needs to be contacted.

Complications
Pityriasis rosea causes severe itching, especially if you become overheated. The rash usually fades without leaving any permanent marks. But, if you have dark skin, long-lasting flat, brown spots may remain after the rash has healed.