Pityriasis Rosacea Explained

Pityriasis rosacea is a skin disease that is quite common in individuals between 10 - 35 years of age, affecting more females than males. The symptoms of pityriasis rosacea can last anywhere from several weeks to several months. The first symptom usually is a characteristic skin rash, or lesion, on the chest or back region known as a "herald" patch. The herald patch appears as a single, large pinkish/reddish/brownish-colored patch that is round to oval in shape and slightly raised usually with a scaly circular center.

Because of its appearance, the herald patch may be mistaken for ringworm which, in contrast to pityriasis rosea, is contagious, caused by fungus, and requires antifungal medication. Smaller, but similar, patches will manifest on the trunk, arms, and legs but rarely are the face, hands, or feet affected. Other symptoms may include itching, fatigue, and/or aches.

The cause of pityriasis rosacea is unknown, but it has been suspected to be of viral origin, cannot be passed between individuals, usually does not recur, and is not indicative of any internal disease.