10 Pityriasis Rosea Facts
Fact #1: Produces a Viral Exanthem
An exanthem is a term that describes the widespread rash that breaks out most commonly among children. Historically, there are six classical exanthems where four are of viral origin. Examples of conditions causing a viral exanthem are measles (measles virus), rubella (rubella virus), erythema infectiosum (parvovirus B19), and roseola infantum (Human Herpesvirus 6 and 7).
Besides the four viruses that causes a viral exanthem, there are many other viruses that can also cause an exanthem. Examples include mumps, rhinovirus, varicella zoster virus, tick-borne diseases, and some types of viral hemorrhagic fever. While the exact cause of pityriasis rosea is unknown, the consideration of it having a viral origin is supported by the clinical course, seasonal occurrence, occasional prodromal symptoms, low rate of recurrence, and possibility of epidemic occurrence.
