Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis rosea (say: pit-ih-rye-ah-sis row-see-ah) is a scaly, reddish-pink skin rash. It is most common in children and young adults, and usually occurs in spring and fall.

If you get this skin condition, you may feel like you have a cold at first. Then, a single scaly red spot may appear on your back or stomach. This is called a "herald patch." Smaller spots will develop on your body days to weeks later. These spots may itch badly. If the rash is on your back, it may have the shape of a Christmas tree.

The cause of pityriasis rosea is uncertain. Some doctors believe that pityriasis rosea is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Certain medicines also can cause this rash. Pityriasis rosea is not contagious, so people with this rash do not have to be kept away from other people.

The rash of pityriasis rosea can look like eczema, ringworm or psoriasis. Infection with syphilis also can cause a similar rash. If your doctor thinks you might have syphilis, he or she will order a blood test to find out.

Pityriasis rosea usually lasts 1 to 3 months and usually never comes back. Let your doctor know if the rash or itching lasts longer than 3 months.

The rash usually goes away on its own. No treatment can cure it, but medicine can help relieve the itching. Your doctor might have you use antihistamine pills, a steroid cream, calamine lotion or zinc oxide cream to relieve the itching. Sometimes people with pityriasis rosea have to take steroid pills to clear up their rash.