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Pityriasis rosea on the chest

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Pityriasis rosea

Symptoms: Skin lesion or rash Starts with a single (herald) lesion Followed several days later by more lesions May follow cleavage lines or appear in a "Christmas tree" pattern Oval plaque, papule, or macule Sharp border May spread Centers have wrinkled (cigarette paper) appearance The lesions appears like a scale that is attached at the edges and loose at the center Itching of the lesions (mild to severe) Skin redness or inflammation Signs and tests: Your physician can usually diagnose pityriasis rosea based on the appearance of the rash. A blood test may be required, however, to distinguish pityriasis rosea from the very similar rash seen in secondary syphilis. Occasionally, a skin biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

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