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Nov 2, 20223 min read

Pityriasis Rosea: What is it?

Written by: Hailey Rudman


What is Pityriasis Rosea?

On the spectrum of rare diseases, the simple-looking, salmon-pigmented rash known as pityriasis rosea may appear as ordinary as any benign dermatitis. Starting with a light pink, oval-shaped area, the rash may initially appear on the chest, stomach, or back. This is referred to as the herald or “mother” patch. The rash is followed by smaller pink or tan scaly marks elsewhere on the body several weeks later. Common symptoms of PR include fatigue, aches, itchiness at the site of infection, and even a sore throat. Some patients diagnosed with pityriasis rosea tend to experience a mild cold prior to the rash. PR rashes may mimic those of syphilis, yet the diseases are not directly related which is a typical misnomer.


How is PR diagnosed?

A doctor can diagnose pityriasis rosea through a simple blood test. Although it may not always be the case that a test is necessary, it will be most effective in ruling out other plausible conditions that resemble PR. It is important that when a rash is brought to the attention of a doctor, they ask patients about their medical history, what current medications they are taking, as well as if they are pregnant This is because certain medications may cause rashes that appear similar to PR, but are entirely unrelated. Dermatologists may also perform skin biopsies or scraping to confirm the diagnosis, as well as to see what would work in the best interest of the patient to treat them. However, the rash of PR is unique, and most trained dermatologists are able to diagnose a patient based on a physical exam.


What are Treatment Options?

Although pityriasis rosea will most likely go away with little to no treatment if left alone, some people seek medical remedies to relieve itchiness or pain. Specific treatment may be provided to a patient based on age, medical history, medical tolerance, and expectations for the course of the rash. Dermatologists will prescribe a variety of topicals and oral medications for patients with pityriasis rosea. Examples of medications may include an anti-itch lotion (hydrocortisone cream), triamcinolone ointment, antihistamines, and UVB phototherapy. In normal cases, PR will not return. However, patients with naturally darker pigmented skin may experience dark spots where the rash once was. Clearing of those spots may take between 6 to 12 months.


Pityriasis Rosea vs. Psoriasis

Although PR and psoriasis may appear similar during physical examination, they are completely different conditions with their respective causes. While pityriasis rosea is a condition in which there is no known cause, psoriasis differs in that data shows it is an autoimmune condition.


Pityriasis Rosea (PR):

  • typically goes away within 2 months on its own

  • symptoms = mother patch, which is a large, scaly patch of skin that appears on the skin, followed by several extending patches

  • common in people between the ages of 10 and 35

  • also more likely to occur during pregnancy

Psoriasis:

  • there is no known cure, but is it possible to manage

  • symptoms = red, inflamed, raised patches of skin with a covering of thick, silvery scales

  • anyone is susceptible

  • even more common in people with genetic risk





References:

Image: Merk Manuals


“Pityriasis rosea.” Better Health Channel, N.D., https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/pityriasis-rosea. Accessed 2 November 2022.


“Pityriasis rosea - Symptoms and causes.” Mayo Clinic, N.D.,


Sullivan, Debra. “Psoriasis vs. pityriasis rosea: Symptoms and causes.” Medical News Today,


Disclaimer: This organization's content is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Content provided on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options. Information on this website should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional.


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