Pityriasis Rosea Causes
Pityriasis rosea treatment primarily focuses on treating the symptoms of this skin illness. Pityriasis is commonly confused with other skin conditions such as, Lyme disease, psoriasis, ringworm and secondary syphilis because of the initial appearance of the pityriasis rosea skin rash. Learn the steps to relieve the discomfort that is commonly associated with this condition.
This skin illness is a rash that typically develops on the abdomen, back, or chest. This rash often occurs in middle of the body, swoops outward, and is characterized by shapes that appear similar to drooping pine tree branches. This condition can affect people of any age; however, this form of rosea is more common in pre-teens and young adults.
The initial stages of the disease begin with a headache, stuffy nose, mild fever, sore throat and the characteristic beginnings of a large, raised scaly patch (herald patch) on the abdomen, back, or chest. Days or weeks after the herald patch affects the body, the person may begin to notice fine, scaly spots covering the abdomen, back, or chest similar to the pine tree pattern. This characteristic patch is normally pink and scaly; however, if the affected person has dark skin, the area may be dark brown, gray, or even black. After the patch has developed, the sufferer may also notice itching and small spots on the arms, face, and legs. This condition will typically disappear on its own after about two to three weeks, sometimes longer. If the rash is still present after three months, the person affected should schedule an appointment with the doctor.
The exact pityriasis rosea causes are unknown; however, it is believed to be caused by certain strains of the herpes virus (HHV6 or HHV7). Although the pityriasis rosea causes are believed to be attributed to a viral infection, the condition is not contagious. Common complications of this skin illness may include intense itching or long-term brown spots on the skin, even after the rash has healed.
This condition may be detected by a doctor in a number of different ways. The doctor may be able to determine the diagnosis, visually. He or she may order blood tests to determine the results or a biopsy may be performed to remove a small sample of skin tissue in order to rule out other conditions.
While there is no available cure, this rash will normally disappear after a few weeks; however, treatment options are available to relieve the symptoms. Treatment of the rash may include the use of antiviral medications or light therapy (phototherapy). Itch relief may be in the form of oral antihistamines (Allegra, Benadryl, Claritin and Zyrtec) and/or prescription steroid creams and ointments. Home remedies may also be helpful in relieving the symptoms.
Preventative options are not available for this condition because no one knows the exact cause of the disease. While this condition will go away on its own, the symptoms may be unsightly, uncomfortable, and itchy. Pityriasis rosea treatment options are available for making the symptoms more bearable.