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Pityriasis rosea

What is pityriasis rosea?

It is a skin rash thought to be caused by a virus. It commonly occurs in young adults (especially aged 15) but might occur at any age. It is not considered to be contagious.

What are the symptoms?

The rash

The rash usually starts with a large spot on the trunk called a 'herald' patch because it heralds the onset of a widespread rash several days later. The spots then break out over the body to cover the trunk and upper arms (a 'T-shirt' distribution) and the upper legs. Rarely, the rash can cover the neck and face. The spots become oval patches (about the size of a coin) of salmon-red or copper-coloured skin with scaly margins.

Other symptoms

Patients are not ill, although there may be some minor discomfort from itching. Some patients have no itching at all, while some can have considerable itching.

What are the risks?

There are no risks attached to pityriasis rosea, but you should visit your doctor to make sure that you do not have some other similar skin disorder such as ringworm. No scarring will result from the skin rash unless there is a complicating infection. Second attacks are rarely seen.

How long does the rash last?

Pityriasis rosea usually runs a natural course of 4 weeks. There are no medicines or treatments available to shorten this course.

What is the treatment?

There is no special treatment for pityriasis rosea. You should lead your normal active life, but if possible expose the skin to sunlight as this tends to lessen the rash. Otherwise ultraviolet light therapy 3 times a week is helpful. Bathe and shower as usual, but use a mild soap. If itching is a bother, some soothing lotions or creams can be used. These include calamine lotion or calamine lotion with 1 per cent phenol or urea cream. If itching is severe, your doctor will prescribe special medication.

Copyright 1995: John Murtagh, Professor of General Practice
Monash University, Melbourne, Australia