Pityriasis rosea overview
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [2]
Overview
Pityriasis rosea is a skin disease marked by patches of pink, oval rash. Although its exact cause is unknown and its onset is not linked to food, medicines or stress, it is thought that this essentially non-contagious condition is set off by a virus. Pityriasis rosea can affect members of either sex of any age. However, it is most common in females and those between the ages of 8 and 35. Symptoms only recur in 3% of the affected.
Risk Factors
Although pityriasis rosea may occur in more than one person in a household at a time, it is not thought to spread from one person to another.
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Pityriasis rosea usually lasts between 8 to 10 weeks — the rashes disappear without scarring. In people with dark complexions, however, hyperpigmented discolorations may last for several months afterwards. Although Pityriasis rosea may occur in more than one person in a household at a time, it is not thought to be highly contagious. Dogs and bears are known to be afflicted by Pityriasis rosea quite frequently