What is pityriasis rosea?

This is what a pityriasis rosea rash looks like:

A pityriasis rosea rash is often preceded by a single, large oval patch on the trunk.

The rash may often appear on the back in a “Christmas tree-like” pattern.

Mostly adolescents and young adults get this rash.

What are the symptoms of pityriasis rosea?

• Headache, sore throat, swollen glands and generally feeling mildly ill.

• A single oval pink to red patch of rash usually develops first. The patch can occur anywhere on the body.

• After 5-10 days a second rash appears. This rash is similar but smaller than the first and occurs multiply over the trunk.

• Itchy skin

• If you press on the rash, it will blanch (turn pale) and then return to the red color.

Home care

It is important to positively identify the rash to be sure it does  not indicate a more serious problem. Call our office for advice.

Your child usually will not need any specific medicine to clear the  rash. It should gradually clear in 2-4 weeks, and disappear completely  in 6-14 weeks.

Calamine lotion may make your child more comfortable. Do not use  Caladryl® lotion with Benadryl® syrup as they both contain  diphenhydramine. Using both medications at the same time may cause too  much sleepiness.

Exposing the skin to sunlight will speed the healing.

Warning signs – Call our office for advice if:

Your child’s itching does not improve with the medicine, Call Our Office Now.

Your child’s rash is red or purple and does not turn pale briefly after pressing on it, Call Our Office Now.

You have any questions or concerns, or if you have any doubts about the severity of your child’s symptoms, Call Our Office Now.