Pityriasis rosea is a rash that usually appears on the trunk of the body. It may also appear on the upper arms and upper legs. It usually begins as a single patch, and then more patches begin to develop. The rash may cause mild itching but normally does not cause other problems. It usually goes away without treatment. However, it may take weeks or months for the rash to go away completely.
CAUSES
The cause of this condition is not known. The condition does not spread from person to person.
RISK FACTORS
This condition is more likely to develop in young adults and children. It is most common in the spring and fall.
SYMPTOMS
The main symptom of this condition is a rash.
• The rash usually begins with a single oval patch …show more content…
They are usually flat but may sometimes be raised so that they can be felt with a finger. They may also be finely crinkled and have a scaly ring around the edge.
• The rash normally does not appear on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun.
Most people with this condition do not have other symptoms, but some have mild itching. In a few cases, a mild headache or body aches may occur before the rash appears and then go away.
DIAGNOSIS
Your health care provider may diagnose this condition by doing a physical exam and taking your medical history. To rule out other causes for the rash, the health care provider may order blood tests or take a skin sample from the rash to be looked at under a microscope.
TREATMENT
Treatment is usually not needed for this condition. The rash will normally go away on its own in 4–8 weeks. In some cases, a health care provider may recommend or prescribe medicine to reduce itching.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
• Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
• Avoid scratching the affected areas of skin.
• Do not take hot baths or use a sauna. Use warm water when bathing or showering. Heat can increase itching.
SEEK MEDICAL CARE