What is pityriasis rosea?
A person with pityriasis rosea has a common skin rash that tends to occur in the spring and fall. The rash usually causes itchy, pink, oval patches on the trunk and extremities. The cause of pityriasis rosea is unknown, but it may be triggered by a viral infection.

What are the symptoms of pityriasis rosea?
Symptoms that may occur before pityriasis rosea include a runny nose, cough, nasal congestion and sore throat. The rash usually starts with a single, itchy, pink, oval on the chest, back or abdomen. As the patchy rash spreads, it may form a pattern that looks like the drooping branches of pine tree.

How does the doctor treat pityriasis rosea?
Pityriasis rosea resolves without treatment within 8 weeks. Treatment for pityriasis rosea may include oral antihistamines, hydrocortisone cream, and phototherapy.