BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Medical Services has issued a health advisory on Pityriasis Rosea, a skin condition commonly seen during the rainy season. Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan announced that the condition typically appears suddenly as a rash with circular or oval patches that follow natural skin lines, forming a pattern resembling pine branches.
Pityriasis Rosea usually affects individuals aged 10 to 35 and is more common in women. The rash typically lasts six to eight weeks, but may persist for several months. Pregnant women, especially during the first 15 weeks, are considered at greater risk due to a possible link with miscarriage.
The rash often begins on the torso and may spread to the neck and upper limbs. A single larger “herald patch” typically appears first, followed by smaller lesions. These patches are pink, salmon-colored, or light brown with raised edges and fine scaling. The face, hands, and feet are usually unaffected. Itching occurs in about 25 percent of cases.
Some patients may experience early symptoms such as headache, fever, joint pain, or muscle aches. In rare cases, small pustules may appear in the early stages of the condition. Though the condition is not contagious and usually resolves without scarring, medical consultation is advised to rule out other skin conditions.
Treatment focuses on symptom relief. Moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, or oral antihistamines may ease itching. In more severe cases, short-term oral corticosteroids or UVB phototherapy may be prescribed. All treatments should be supervised by a medical professional. (NNT)
