Name
PITYRIASIS ROSEA
DESCRIPTION
DETAIL
CAUSES Unknown, may be a viral agent or an autoimmune disorder. Several studies have implicated herpesviruses, but other research has not confi rmed this association. -------------------------------------------------------------------------- DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS β’ Secondary syphilis β’ Viral exanthems β’ Drug rashes β’ Psoriasis β’ Parapsoriasis β’ Eczema β’ Lichen planus β’ Tinea corporis LABORATORY WBC normal. No specific lab markers. Serology to rule out syphilis. SPECIAL TESTS KOH preparation to distinguish from tinea corporis
TYPENOTES
RISK FACTORS UnknownGENERAL MEASURES β’ Symptomatic treatment β’ Topical antipruritics as needed β’ Ultraviolet therapy has been used but a controlled study showed minimal benefi t β’ Lukewarm oatmeal baths (not hot as it can intensify itching) ACTIVITY Full activity with good skin hygiene to prevent secondary infection PATIENT EDUCATION β’ Reassurance as to self-limited nature of condition DRUG(S) OF CHOICE . Topical steroids to reduce itching, if needed . Triamcinolone 0.1% cream . Oral antihistamines . Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25 mg tid . Chlorpheniramine 8 mg tid PATIENT MONITORING β’ Check syphilis serology β’ Return visit for reevaluation, if lesions persist longer than 8-10 weeks POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS Secondary infection (e.g., impetigo) EXPECTED COURSE/PROGNOSIS Gradual resolution in 1-14 weeks (usually 2-6)
RELATED DISEASE
Not Available Disease
DISEASE
INVESTIGATION
KOH PREPARATION FOR FUNGUS