dermatologic disorders
Pityriasis Rosea
Key Points
Pityriasis rosea is a self-limited, inflammatory disorder of the skin possibly caused by human herpesvirus types 6, 7, or 8 or medications. An initial 2- to 10-cm herald patch is followed by centripetal eruption of oval papules and plaques with a slightly raised and scaly border, typically appearing along skin lines. Diagnose based on clinical appearance and distribution. Treat with antipruritic medications as needed and possibly topical corticosteroids and/or sunlight. Pityriasis rosea during the first 15 weeks of pregnancy is associated with premature birth or fetal demise. Pregnant women should be offered antiviral therapy, even though this has not proved to reduce obstetric complications. 