First, there will most often be a single red dry spot that is 1-5 cm in size on the chest, stomach or back. Not everyone discovers this. After 1-20 days, a number of small 1-2 cm red, oval, dry spots appear at the same time. These are on the torso, arms or legs. It is easiest to see the peeling at the outer edge of each individual rash. It may be itchy. There is no fever or feeling of illness. The entire disease goes away on its own after 6-12 weeks. There may remain flat light patches of skin in those with darker skin, but these should disappear after a few months.
One thinks that this is a harmless after-effect of a type of viral infection, without usually being able to identify which type of virus has caused this. Some may report a slight cold before the rash appears. Vaccines can also trigger it. The cause is usually unknown.
The most important thing is to determine whether it could be another skin disease, since both fungal infection, psoriasis and other diseases can resemble pityriasis rosea. In addition to this, the only way to reduce the pain is to lubricate the skin with moisturizer or cortisone cream. The disease does not always need treatment.
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
