Pityriasis Rosea - Literature Review

Abstract

Pityriasis rosea (PR) is a common papulosquamous disorder. It is seen mostly in children and young adults. The
underlying cause of PR is unclear but a viral aetiology has been postulated. It is characterized by scaly papules and
plaques distributed mainly on the trunk parallel to Langer's skin lines in a Christmas tree pattern. The generalized
eruptions are often preceded by the appearance of a single larger lesion known as the herald patch. Prodromal
symptoms of fever, sore throat or arthralgia may occur in a minority of patients. Itching is often mild to moderate. The
eruptions disappear spontaneously within 6 to 8 weeks with temporary post inflammatory hypo- or hyperpigmentation.
Thus, treatment is supportive, although mid-potency topical corticosteroids can reduce pruritus; high-dose acyclovir
may speed up recovery. Recurrence or relapse is very rare.