Pityriasis rosea

Treatment:

Only gentle, soothing measures should be used, as aggressive treatment has been known to cause the lesions to spread. If symptoms are mild, no treatment may be needed.

Gentle bathing, mild lubricants or anti- pruritic creams, or mild hydrocortisone creams may be used to soothe inflammation. Oral antihistamines may be used to reduce itching. Oral corticosteroids (see corticosteroids - oral) may be needed to reduce severe inflammation.

Moderate sun exposure or ultraviolet light treatment may help speed resolution of lesions; however, care must be taken to avoid sunburn.

Expectations (prognosis):

Pityriasis rosea usually goes away within 6 to 12 weeks, but symptoms may recur.

Complications:

Pityriasis rosea may mimic or disguise other disorders.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of this disorder.