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Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis rosea (PR) is an acute self-limiting, papulosquamous inflammatory disease of uncertain etiology, characterized by multiple erythematous scaly patches over the back and trunk along the cleavage lines.
Pityriasis Rosea
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  • Mild constitutional symptoms. Mild pruritus.
  • Occasionally they are multiple and seen in 50% cases.
  • Wide spread pink papules
  • Appear 5-15 days after herald patch.
  • Vesicular, pustules and purpuric lesions are also seen.
  • These symptoms usually persist for 6-8weeks.
  • Spontaneously resolve. Heal with hypo/hyperpigmentation.
  • Inverse PR –lesions are seen in the axilla and inguinal areas.
  • Congestion of oral mucosa, nose.
  • Face, palms and soles usually spared.
  • The precise cause is not known.
  • Probably viral infections – HHV-7 &HHV-6 play a role.
  • Some drugs – Metronidazole, gold, barbiturates, clonidine, captopril, isotretinoin, imatinib can cause PR like eruption.
  • Cell mediated immunity may be involved with a presence of activated CD4 + / HLA – DR+ in the epidermal and dermal infiltrate in association with Langerhans cells(CD1a+).
  • Commonly seen in children and young adults (35 years).
  • Slight female predominance.
  • No racial predilection
  • Worldwide
  • Seasonal variations – peak in the spring and fall.

How is it diagnosed?

  • Initial lesion is a solitary skin to pink colored oval patch with collarette of scales.
  • It appears on the trunk and less often on the neck.
  • It is known as “Herald patch” or “Mother patch”. Papular lesions coalesce to form multiple pink colored oval patches with collarette scales.
  • Along the lines of cleavage on the posterior trunk and back.
  • Resemble “Christmas tree pattern”.
Pityriasis Rosea

How is it treated?

  • Self-limiting condition
  • Counseling and reassurance
  • Anti-pruritic lotions
  • Topical medium potency corticosteroids
  • NBUVB therapy for 5-10 days
  • Natural sunlight
  • Oral antihistamines
  • Erythromycin –25-40 mg/kg/day in four divided doses for 14 days
  • Acyclovir 800 mg five times daily is also effective
  • Systemic steroids in severe cases

Consult with experienced Doctors

JNU is home to some of the most eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective arenas and are renowned for developing innovative and revolutionary procedures
Gajanand Ojha

Dr. Gajanand Ojha

Professor

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MBBS, MD

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Priyanka Sharma

Dr. Priyanka Sharma

Associate Professor

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MBBS, MD

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Neha Agarwal

Dr. Neha Agarwal

Assistant Professor

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MBBS, MD

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Vikarn Garg

Dr. Vikarn Garg

Assistant Professor

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MBBS, MD

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Amit Kumar Malhotra

Dr. Amit Kumar Malhotra

Assistant Professor

Qualification

MBBS, MD

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