What is pityriasis rosea?

This is what a pityriasis rosea rash looks like:

A pityriasis rosea rash is often preceded by a single, large oval patch on the trunk.

The rash may often appear on the back in a "Christmas tree-like" pattern.

Mostly adolescents and young adults get this rash.

What are the symptoms of pityriasis rosea?

Home care

It is important to positively identify the rash to be sure it does not indicate a more serious problem. Call our office for advice.

Your child usually will not need any specific medicine to clear the rash. It should gradually clear in 2-4 weeks, and disappear completely in 6-14 weeks.

Calamine lotion may make your child more comfortable. Do not use Caladryl® lotion with Benadryl® syrup as they both contain diphenhydramine. Using both medications at the same time may cause too much sleepiness.

Exposing the skin to sunlight will speed the healing.

Warning signs - Call our office for advice if:

Your child's itching does not improve with the medicine, call our office now.

Your child's rash is red or purple and does not turn pale briefly after pressing on it, call our office now.

You have any questions or concerns, or if you have any doubts about the severity of your child's symptoms, call our office now.