Pityriasis rosea

Pityriasis rosea

Pityriasis Rosea: Meet the Mysterious “Christmas Rash” That Goes Away on Its Own
*The important point is: This disease is not a contagious skin or respiratory disease*
Pityriasis rosea is a type of skin rash with unique characteristics. It is common in teenagers and people aged 10–35. It usually starts with a single rash, followed by small rashes spreading all over the body, causing many people to panic and wonder if they have a serious skin disease.

Causes and development of the disease
Although this disease has been known for a long time, the real cause is still unclear. However, there is a lot of scientific evidence supporting that the Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and Human Herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7) viruses may play a role in triggering the rash, which is believed to be caused by the “reactivation” of viruses that are already in the body, not a new infection.

Symptoms and progression of the disease
1. The initial stage (Herald patch) usually starts with a single rash. Large, approximately 2–10 centimeters, oval-shaped, pink-red, with clear edges and fine scales around the edges (called “collarette scale”). Usually occurs on the chest, back, or abdomen.
2. The rash spreads. Approximately 5–15 days after the first rash, small, pink, oval-shaped rashes will appear along the skin folds, such as the sides of the body, back, and upper arms. The rash is arranged diagonally along the skin folds, making it look like a “Christmas tree” when viewed from behind.
3. Other symptoms may include mild to moderate itching (especially when sweating). Some people may experience fatigue, headache, or sore throat before the rash appears.
4. Duration of the disease The rash will resolve on its own within 6–12 weeks, leaving no scars, except in some cases where there may be temporary dark spots.

Differential diagnosis
Although the disease has specific characteristics, be careful not to misdiagnose it with other diseases, such as: Diseases Similar characteristics Differentiation method
Ringworm (Tinea corporis) The rash has similar scales. Fungal test
(KOH test) Secondary syphilis There is a rash all over the body. Blood test
(VDRL, RPR) Eczema has flakes, redness, itching, often has a history of chronic rash.

Treatment
There is no specific treatment because the disease will go away on its own. But there may be supportive treatment according to the symptoms, such as:
• Topical medicine: Mild steroid creams such as hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation and itching.
• Oral medicine: Antihistamines such as cetirizine or loratadine to reduce itching.
• UVB light: For those with severe rash or those who do not respond to general treatment.
• Antiviral drugs (Acyclovir): Some reports say that it may help the rash go away faster if given early in the disease.

What to avoid
• Avoid taking hot showers or using strong soaps.
• Avoid scratching the rash because it may cause secondary bacterial infection.
• Avoid exposure to strong sunlight because it may make the rash darker or last longer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this disease contagious?
A: It is not contagious, whether through skin contact or sharing things.
Q: Can it come back?
A: Mostly, it only happens once in a lifetime. But there may be a small number that recur.
Q: Do I need to see a doctor?
A: If you are sure that the rash is not severe and there are no other abnormal symptoms, you can wait for it to heal on its own.
However, you should see a doctor if the rash looks unusual, lasts for more than 3 months, has a fever, sore throat, or symptoms similar to syphilis.

Summary
Pythiasis rosea may seem alarming when a rash first appears, but it is actually a harmless and non-contagious disease. The rash will heal on its own in a few weeks and usually does not leave a trace. If you have any further questions, you should consult a dermatologist to be sure.