What is pityriasis rosea?
Pityriasis rosea is a skin rash. This rash usually affects
people between the ages of 6 and 30 years. Usually a health care provider
needs to examine the rash to diagnose it.
The rash has the following features:
- The rash begins with a single herald or mother patch that
looks like a large ringworm and is 1 to 3 inches across.
- The herald patch has a scaly, raised border and a pink
center.
- A widespread rash of smaller matching spots on both sides
of the body occurs 7 to 14 days after the herald patch first appears.
- This rash consists of pink, oval-shaped spots that are 1/4
to 1/2 inch across. The spots are covered with fine scales, which give the
rash a crinkled appearance.
- The rash appears primarily on the chest, abdomen, and
back. Often it is worse in the groin and armpits. Usually the rash does not
appear on the face.
- The rash can be itchy during the first one or two weeks.
What is the cause?
The rash is probably caused by a virus.
How long does it last?
This condition is harmless. The rash disappears without
treatment. The different parts of the rash last from 6 to 10 weeks. During
this time your youngster will feel fine.
How is it treated?
- Skin creams
In general treatment is unnecessary. If the skin is dry, a
moisturizing cream may be helpful. For itchiness, use 1% hydrocortisone
cream (no prescription necessary) two or three times a day. If the rash
still itches after using this cream, call your health care provider's office
for a stronger steroid cream.
- Sunlight exposure
One dose of ultraviolet light can stop itching and shorten
the course of pityriasis. Have your youngster sunbathe for 30 minutes
(enough to make the skin pink). Do this only once. If this is impossible,
use a sun lamp or consider a tanning salon. CAUTION: Avoid sunburn.
- Contagiousness
Pityriasis is not contagious. Your child can attend school
and take gym.
When should I call the doctor?
Call your child's doctor during office hours if:
- The rash becomes very itchy.
- The rash becomes infected with pus or draining scabs.
- The rash lasts longer than three months.
- You have other questions or concerns.
