Publication:

Pityriasis rosea: a clinicoepidemiological study of 115 cases

Background Pityriasis rosea (PR) is a skin eruption of unknown etiology, probably related to human herpes virus-7 (HHV-7).

Methods One hundred and fifteen patients with PR who presented to the dermatology outpatient department over a period of one year from May 2016 to April 2017 were included in the study. The various clinicoepidemiological features observed in these patients are recorded in the study.

Results Majority of patients (55%) belonged to the age group of 11 to 30 years with the youngest patient being 16 months of age. Mild seasonal variation was observed with maximum cases occurring during September and October. Classical PR was the common type seen and papular PR was the most common atypical presentation. Majority of the cases (78%) lasted for 4 to 5 weeks.

Conclusions PR is a common self-limiting disorder seen in young adults. Knowledge about the disease will help in correct management and prevent unnecessary distress to the patient.