Pityriasis rosea on the chest

Pityriasis rosea is a skin disease that produces oval spots (papules) over the trunk. The rash is frequently preceded by a "herald patch" (pictured here) lasting 1 to 2 weeks. The rash is usually rose red to brownish red with fine scales and central clearing. Itching (pruritus) occasionally occurs. Spontaneous remission occurs in 2 to 8 weeks. It is probably caused by an infectious agent, most likely a virus.

Review Date: 10/16/2006
Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.