Viral Infections

Home » Viral Infections » Pityriasis Rosea (PR)

Overview

Pityriasis rosea (PR) is a benign, self-limiting eruption that occurs commonly in young adults or adolescents and seems to have an increased incidence during the winter months.

Cause

A viral cause is suggested by its seasonal prevalence and the occasional preceding symptoms of malaise and headache. Evidence supports the role of human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7). Up to 98% of affected individuals develop lifelong immunity and few experience recurrences.

Signs and Symptoms

The pattern of eruption usually begins with a single, oval, pink, scaly patch several centimeters in diameter (called a herald patch). Five to 10 days later, a general eruption occurs with multiple round or oval pink patches with fine scale around the borders. These lesions are smaller than the herald patch and sometimes erupt on the back in a Christmas tree pattern. Most lesions occur on the trunk and upper extremities, usually not on the face. New lesions form over the subsequent weeks and complete healing occurs in 2 to 3 months. Occasionally, light or dark patches remain after the rash has healed, but the skin color eventually returns to normal with no scarring.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by clinical observation. A skin biopsy can be obtained and examined by a pathologist to confirm or exclude the diagnosis, if there is uncertainty.

Treatment

Most patients require no treatment. Itching occurs in about one-third of cases and various lotions can be used to relieve the symptoms. Exposure to sunlight seems to help heal the lesions.

Prevention

No preventative measures are known.

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