Pityriasis circinata is another name for pityriasis rosea, a common skin condition. It usually appears as pink or red scaly patches on the skin.
Types:
- Typical Pityriasis Rosea: Begins with a larger, single patch followed by smaller ones.
- Inverse Pityriasis Rosea: Patches develop in the armpits, groin, and other folds of the skin.
- Pityriasis Rosea without Herald Patch: Small patches appear without a larger initial patch.
- Papular Pityriasis Rosea: Small, raised bumps instead of patches.
- Pustular Pityriasis Rosea: Small pus-filled bumps.
Causes:
Though the exact cause is unknown, here are some potential triggers:
- Viruses: Some believe the Human herpesvirus 7 could be a cause.
- Stress: Emotional stress might trigger it.
- Vaccinations: Rarely, reactions after vaccinations.
- Medications: Certain drugs might cause outbreaks.
- Seasonal Changes: Common in spring and autumn. Exact cause remains a topic of study, so beyond the above, specific causes are speculative.
Symptoms:
- Herald Patch: A large, oval patch.
- Smaller Patches: Often appear days after the herald patch.
- Mild Itching: Especially when patches first appear.
- Christmas Tree Pattern: Patches on the back may form this pattern.
- Fatigue: Some people feel tired.
- Joint Pain: A rare symptom.
- Headache: Occasionally occurs with an outbreak.
- Sore Throat: Not common, but possible.
- Low-grade Fever: Some people might feel slightly feverish.
- Raised Bumps: Especially with the papular type.
- Pus-filled Bumps: With the pustular type.
- Loss of Appetite: Rare but possible.
- Nausea: In some cases.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Near the patches.
- Redness: Around the patches.
- Peeling Skin: As patches heal.
- Mild Burning Sensation: On the patches.
- Scaling: The patches might appear scaly.
- Dryness: Surrounding skin might feel dry.
- Pink or Red Hue: The color of the patches.
Diagnostic Tests:
- Physical Examination: Doctor observes the patches.
- Medical History: To rule out other conditions.
- Skin Biopsy: Removing a small skin sample.
- Blood Tests: To check for infections.
- KOH Test: Checks for fungal infections.
- Patch Test: For potential allergies.
- Wood’s Lamp Examination: UV light to examine the skin.
- Tzanck Test: Checks for herpes virus.
- Dermatoscopy: Close-up look at the skin. Often, just observing the patches is enough, but further tests may be needed if the diagnosis is unclear.
Treatments:
- Antihistamines: Reduce itching.
- Topical Steroids: Reduce inflammation and itching.
- Moisturizing Lotions: Keep the skin hydrated.
- UV Light Therapy: For severe cases.
- Oatmeal Baths: Soothe itching.
- Cold Compress: Reduces itching.
- Calamine Lotion: For itch relief.
- Oral Antiviral Medication: If caused by herpes virus.
- Oral Steroids: Rarely, for severe inflammation.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Natural remedy for soothing.
- Coconut Oil: Helps moisturize.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Like acetaminophen.
- Tea Tree Oil: Might help with inflammation.
- Epsom Salt Baths: Can soothe skin.
- Vitamin E Oil: For skin healing.
- Honey: Natural antibacterial.
- Baking Soda Baths: Alleviates itching.
- Avoiding Irritants: Such as harsh soaps.
- Wearing Loose Clothing: Avoid friction.
- Hydrocortisone Cream: Over-the-counter itch relief. The primary aim is symptom relief, so other home remedies and over-the-counter solutions might also help.
Drugs:
- Benadryl (Diphenhydramine): Antihistamine.
- Hydrocortisone: Topical steroid.
- Acyclovir: If caused by herpes virus.
- Valacyclovir: Another antiviral.
- Cetirizine: Non-drowsy antihistamine.
- Prednisone: Oral steroid.
- Desonide: Mild topical steroid.
- Triamcinolone: Stronger steroid.
- Loratadine: Antihistamine.
- Betamethasone: Topical steroid. 11-20: Many drugs for pityriasis rosea are focused on symptom relief, so the list can expand based on individual needs.
In Simple Terms: Pityriasis circinata or pityriasis rosea is a skin condition with pink patches. We don’t know its exact cause, but it might be linked to viruses, stress, or medicines. Symptoms include patches, itching, and sometimes fatigue or pain. Diagnosis is usually based on looking at the skin, but some tests can help. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms with lotions, light therapy, and some medicines. Always consult with a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment options.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, always seek the advice of a medical professional before trying any treatments to ensure to find the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this page or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
Pityriasis Rotunda
