WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR PITYRIASIS ROSEA?

* Be aware that the recommended treatments of illnesses are always being improved. This website was last update on 11/1/2024. The best treatment option MIGHT have changed since that time.

1. Oral Antihistamine
- loratadine *
- fexofenadine (Alegra) *
- certrizine *
- hydroxyzine *

2. Cortisone
- hydrocortisone 2.5% *
- doxepin 5% *
- triamcinolone 0.1%

3. Erythromycin may decrease pruritus

4. There is some data that supports the use of Acyclovir, an antiviral medication, might help (Merck). Some data suggest that acyclovir 800 mg orally 5 times a day for 7 days may be helpful in patients who present early and have widespread disease, or present with flu-like symptoms.

5. Often no treatment is used and it goes away by itself in about 5 weeks.

CAUTION:

1. Pityriasis Rosea during the first 15 weeks of pregnancy is associated with premature birth and increased risk of fetal death.
2. Pregnant women should be offered antivirals therapy, even though this has not proved to reduce obstetric complications. (Merck)
3. All medication, including medication used for pityriasis roses have a risk of side effects.
4. Possible Severe side effects are a severe skin rash, an anaphylactic allergic reaction (leading to the inability to breathe and subsequent death if not treated rapidly), and Clostridioides difficile infection (C. Diff.) of the colon.
5. Medications such as creams, lotions, and gels should be tested in small dosages in areas of the body that are not easily seen.

Consult “Epocrates.com” for each Specific Medication’s possible “Adverse Reactions.” Side effects are also referred to as “Adverse Reactions.” Epocrates.com will tell you both “common reactions” and “serious reactions.” You will have to create an account, but it is simple, fast, and free.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PITYRIASIS ROSEA

The primary symptoms is a temporary rash consisting of raised red scaly patches on the body. It is a rash that often begins as an oval spot on the face, chest, abdomen or back. This is called a herald patch. An initial 2cm to 10-cm herald patch is followed by smaller oval plaques. These plaques have a slightly raised and scaly border.

WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF PITYRIASIS ROSEA?

The exact cause of Pityriasis Rosea is unclear. It might be triggered by an infection with a virus, particularly by certain strains of the Herpes Virus, such as Herpes Virus 6, 7, or 8. But, it's not related to the herpes virus 1 which causes cold sores—Nor, is it related to Herpes Zoster Virus, which causes Shingles.

HOW IS PITYRIASIS ROSEA DIAGNOSED?

The diagnosis of Pityriasis Rosea can be made from a careful history and a visual inspection.