Pityriasis rosea is a common condition that mainly affects children and adolescents. It is characterized by a certain cyclicity and is mainly observed during the cold months. According to sociological data from 2020, one of the most common reasons for visiting a dermatologist is for searching for a treatment for pityriasis rosea.
Causes for pityriasis rosea
Pink lichen (pityriasis rosea) is thought to represent a late reaction to a viral antigen. In this regard, it is said that this dermatosis is most often observed after a viral disease. The most common viral agents include:
- Seasonal viral diseases
- Human Herpes Virus 7 (HHV7)
- Ebstein-Barr virus (EBV)
- Other viruses
This thesis is also supported by the pronounced seasonality of the disease. The autumn-winter period is the time when a person comes into contact with the most and various viral antigens.
Treatment of pityriasis rosea in a child
As discussed earlier, pityriasis rosea is more common in children and adolescents. The likely reason for this is a more reactive immune system. On the other hand, the disease is milder and treatment of pityriasis rosea in children it is often not necessary. However, it is appropriate to have the diagnosis confirmed by a dermatologist, due to the wide range of possible differential diagnoses.
Pityriasis rosea - pictures
The symptoms of pityriasis rosea are very distinctive. It begins with the emergence of a single plaque called the mother. It has larger sizes and is most often localized on the skin of the chest, abdomen or back. The sizes can reach several centimeters in diameter. The maternal plaque is initially red in color, which lightens to pink, and fine scales of whitish color are observed on the surface. After a few days, numerous new plaques appear, similar to the mother's, but smaller in size. They spread most often on the skin of the body, and less often involve the limbs and face. Plaques may be asymptomatic or itchy.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is based on a history of a recent viral illness and the presence of a typical skin rash. No further investigation is usually required. The disease requires differentiation from secondary syphilis, fungus on the body, as well as a rash as a result of drug allergy.
Treatment of pityriasis rosea
Treatment of pityriasis rosea is necessary when larger parts of the skin of the body are involved and is most often symptomatic. Patients should know that the disease is harmless and self-limiting. However, with the right medicine for lichen rosacea, the healing process can be accelerated and the symptoms of itching can be alleviated.
Cream for the treatment of pityriasis rosea – the choice depends on the presence of itching and the area that the plaques involve. A light lotion with a low concentration of corticosteroid or a simple emollient may be prescribed to hydrate the body.
Antihistamines – systemic antihistamines are used to relieve itching symptoms.
Examination at a dermatologist in Sofia
If the symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist for the appointment of a suitable treatment for pink lichen. In clinic Dr. Stavrov Aesthetics diagnoses and treats various skin and venereal diseases. Our address is the city of Sofia, g.k. Manastirski livadi - west, Prof. Velizar Velkov St. 36 (behind Pulse fitness center). See how to find us on the contact page. We also offer an option for online consultation.