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Pityriasis rosea is a common skin condition that usually affects young adults. The cause is unknown, but the condition is thought to be caused by a virus. Symptoms include a rash on the chest and stomach that is made up of small, red, scaling patches. The rash may also spread to the arms, legs, and scalp. Pityriasis rosea is benign and typically clears up within a few months. There are no known complications associated with the condition. Treatment typically consists of using over-the-counter medications to help relieve symptoms.
What is pityriasis rosea?
Pityriasis rosea is a skin rash that most often appears as a single, large, scaly patch on the chest, back, or abdomen. The rash typically lasts 6-8 weeks and may itch mildly. Pityriasis rosea is not contagious and usually goes away without treatment.
Symptoms of pityriasis rosea
The most common symptom of pityriasis rosea is a rash that starts with a single, large, scaly patch on the chest, back, or abdomen. This is followed by smaller patches (called "herald" lesions) that appear a few days later. The rash can be itchy and is often accompanied by mild fever, fatigue, and headache.
If you have pityriasis rosea, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- A single, large, scaly patch on the chest, back, or abdomen. This is often the first symptom of the condition.
- Smaller patches (called "herald" lesions) appear a few days later. These may be slightly pink or red and are often found on the trunk, neck, or face.
- Itchy rash. The itchiness is usually mild and goes away as the rash clears.
- Mild fever.
- Fatigue.
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Headache.
Treatment of Pityriasis rosea
There is no specific cure for pityriasis rosea, but the rash usually goes away on its own within a few weeks. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help relieve your symptoms:
- Apply a moisturizer to your skin to help soothe any itchiness or irritation.
- Use a mild steroid cream if the itching is severe.
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Take an antihistamine if you're having trouble sleeping due to itchiness.
If your rash is particularly severe or doesn't seem to be improving, make an appointment to see your doctor. They may prescribe a stronger steroid cream or an oral medication such as acyclovir (Zovirax) if necessary.
Medications
There are a variety of over-the-counter medications that can be used to treat pityriasis rosea. Antihistamines, corticosteroids, and calcineurin inhibitors are the most common. Antihistamines can
help to relieve itchiness, while corticosteroids can help to reduce inflammation. Calcineurin inhibitors can help to prevent the body from producing too many skin cells, which can lead to flaking and scaling.
If over-the-counter medications do not provide relief, your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication. Hydroxychloroquine, azathioprine, methotrexate, and cyclosporine are all options that may be considered. These medications can have serious side effects, so they should only be used if other treatments have failed.
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Prevention of Pityriasis rosea
There is no sure way to prevent pityriasis rosea. The best way to avoid the condition is to maintain good hygiene and to avoid contact with people who have the condition. Treatment of Pityriasis rosea. There is no cure for pityriasis rosea, but the symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and coal tar products.
In severe cases, phototherapy may be recommended. Prognosis of Pityriasis rosea. Most people with pityriasis rosea experience a full recovery within 12 weeks without any lasting effects. However, some people may experience recurrent episodes of the condition.
Pityriasis rosea is a common skin condition that is characterized by a pink or red rash that typically appears on the chest, back, and abdomen. The rash often has a scaly texture and may be itchy. Pityriasis rosea is caused by a virus and is not contagious. There is no cure for the condition, but it usually goes away on its own within 12 weeks. In some cases, over-the-counter medications can help to relieve the symptoms of pityriasis rosea.
Conclusion
Pityriasis rosea is a self-limited skin disorder that can be diagnosed clinically in most cases. The differential diagnosis includes other exanthems, drug eruptions, and infectious diseases. Lesions of pityriasis rosea typically last 4 to 8 weeks. Treatment is generally not necessary; however, symptomatic relief can be obtained with topical corticosteroids or calcipotriene cream. Rarely, oral antihistamines or calcineurin inhibitors may be required for pruritus control.