Viral Infections

Home » Viral Infections » Pityriasis Rosea (PR)

Overview

Pityriasis rosea (PR) is a benign, self-limiting eruption that occurs commonly in young adults or adolescents and seems to have an increased incidence during the winter months.

Cause

A viral cause is suggested by its seasonal prevalence and the occasional preceding symptoms of malaise and headache. Evidence supports the role of human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7). Up to 98% of affected individuals develop lifelong immunity and few experience recurrences.

Signs and Symptoms

The pattern of eruption usually begins with a single, oval, pink, scaly patch several centimeters in diameter (called a herald patch). Five to 10 days later, a general eruption occurs with multiple round or oval pink patches with fine scale around the borders. These lesions are smaller than the herald patch and sometimes erupt on the back in a Christmas tree pattern. Most lesions occur on the trunk and upper extremities, usually not on the face. New lesions form over the subsequent weeks and complete healing occurs in 2 to 3 months. Occasionally, light or dark patches remain after the rash has healed, but the skin color eventually returns to normal with no scarring.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by clinical observation. A skin biopsy can be obtained and examined by a pathologist to confirm or exclude the diagnosis, if there is uncertainty.

Treatment

Most patients require no treatment. Itching occurs in about one-third of cases and various lotions can be used to relieve the symptoms. Exposure to sunlight seems to help heal the lesions.

Prevention

No preventative measures are known.

Viral Infections Resources

	Join Our Viral Infections Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted. June 1st is National Cancer Survivors Day Share your survival story and help others in the fight against cancer. Read cancer survivor stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
Advertising Disclaimer To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer