Disease: Pityriasis rosea

Overview

Pityriasis rosea is a rash that usually begins as a large circular or oval spot on your chest, abdomen or back. Called a herald patch, this spot can be up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) across.

The herald patch is typically followed by smaller spots that sweep out from the middle of your body in a shape that resembles drooping pine-tree branches.

Pityriasis (pit-ih-RIE-uh-sis) rosea can affect any age group. It most commonly occurs between the ages of 10 and 35. It usually goes away on its own within 10 weeks. Pityriasis rosea can cause itching. Treatment may help relieve the symptoms.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Symptoms

Pityriasis rosea typically begins with a large, slightly raised, scaly patch — called the herald patch — on your back, chest or abdomen. Before the herald patch appears, some people experience headache, fatigue, fever or sore throat.

A few days to a few weeks after the herald patch appears, you may notice smaller scaly spots across your back, chest or abdomen that resemble a pine-tree pattern. The rash can cause itching, which is occasionally severe.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if you develop a persistent rash.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Causes

The exact cause of pityriasis rosea is unclear. Some evidence indicates the rash may be triggered by a viral infection, particularly by certain strains of the herpes virus. But it's not related to the herpes virus that causes cold sores. Pityriasis rosea isn't believed to be contagious.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Diagnosis

In most cases, your doctor can identify pityriasis rosea simply by looking at the rash. He or she may take a small scraping of the rash for testing, as this condition can sometimes be confused with ringworm (tinea corporis).

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Complications

Complications of pityriasis rosea aren't likely. If they do occur, they may include:

  • Severe itching
  • On dark skin, lasting brown spots after the rash has healed

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Lifestyle and home remedies

The following tips may help relieve the discomfort of pityriasis rosea:

  • Take over-the-counter allergy medicine (antihistamines). These include diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others).
  • Bathe or shower in lukewarm water.
  • Take an oatmeal bath. You can find oatmeal bath products at your pharmacy.
  • Apply a moisturizer, calamine lotion or an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

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