What is it about ?
Pink pityriasis (Gibert’s) is a benign skin condition with an unknown cause. Some claim that the rash occurs as a reaction to a viral infection, but this has not been proven. The rash is not contagious.
What is its frequency?
Pink pityriasis mainly affects adolescents and young adults between 10 and 35 years old. The rash is a little more common in women.
How to recognize it?
The course of the disease typically occurs in 2 phases. First, a plaque (macule) appears, alone, often on the torso or chest. It is pink, oval, well defined, with a scaly border and a paler central zone. This is called the warning plate. Sometimes, however, she is absent. A few weeks later, small salmon pink, oval macules appear on the torso and limb roots. They can sometimes be mild itchy. These macules follow the lines of the skin, so they can take the appearance of the branches of a Christmas tree on the back. There is usually no smudge on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet. Usually, the skin condition heals on its own within 6 to 8 weeks and without leaving scars. However, there may be temporary pigmentation differences that gradually disappear.
How is the diagnosis made?
The clinical picture and the course of the disease are characteristic. Additional examinations are generally not necessary.
What can you do ?
If you notice this kind of rash, see your doctor for a correct diagnosis. If in doubt, a blood test or dermatological advice may be indicated.
What can your doctor do?
Pink tinea is a benign skin condition. It is therefore not necessary to treat it. Your doctor will inform you of the progress of the rash and reassure you. An anti-itch product can be applied to relieve the itchiness. If the skin condition persists for a long time and causes severe itching, UVB (ultraviolet B) phototherapy may be considered.
Want to know more?
- Gibert’s pityriasis rosé – Warning plaque (image) – DermIS – Dermatology Information System
- Gibert’s pityriasis rosé (image) – DermIS – Dermatology Information System
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