Pityriasis rosea.

Abstract

BROWN UNIVERSITY HEALTH SERVICES | www.brown.edu/health | 401.863-3953 What is pityriasis rosea? Pityriasis rosea is scaly, reddish-pink skin rash. It is most common in children and young adults. A single scaly red spot may appear on your back or stomach. This is called a “herald patch.” Smaller spots will develop on your body, one to twenty days later. The rash may itch, but usually not badly. Most people with pityriasis rosea feel completely well otherwise. If the rash is on your back, it may have the shape of a Christmas tree. Though mostly on the trunk, it may spread to the thighs, upper arms and neck. It usually avoids the face, though sometimes a few spots spread to the cheeks. Second attacks of pityriasis are rare.