Pityriasis Rosea

Question 1

Pityriasis rosea

Answer 1

Generalised, self limiting rash that has an unknown cause.

Question 2

Presentation of pityriasis rosea

Answer 2

Starts with a herald patch.

Appears 2 + days prior to the rest of the rash.

Rash can be arranged in a “christmas tree” fashion, following the lines of the ribs.

Question 3

Other symptoms of pityriasis rosea

Answer 3

Generalised itch

Low grade pyrexia

Headache

Lethargy

Question 4

Herald patch

Answer 4

Faint red/ pink, scaly, oval shaped lesion that is 2cm + in diameter

Question 5

Where does the herald patch normally appear

Answer 5

On the torso

Question 6

How long does the pityriasis rosea rash last for

Answer 6

Rash resolves without treatment within 3 months

Can leave a discolouration of the skin where the lesions were but these will resolve within another few months

Question 7

Management of pityriasis rosea

Answer 7

Advice and reassurance

Antihistamine for itch

Question 8

Diagnosis of pityriasis rosea

Answer 8

Clinical

Question 9

Is pityriasis rosea contagious

Answer 9

Not contagious