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Pityriasis

First of all Pityriasis is a skin disease resulting in the shedding of fine flakes. Also there are several different types that affect different parts of the body with varying degrees of severity.
most importantly some symptoms may show similarities to certain systemic diseases including: Leukemia, Carcinoma (oesophagus or stomach), Malnutrition, Lupus Erythematosus, Tuberculosis, Hepatic and Pulmonary disease. Also certain other conditions may show similarities including : Psoriasis Capitis, Neurodermatitis, Streptococcal Infection, Ringworm (Tinea Capitis, Favus), Impetigo, Ichthyosis, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis (of Scalp).

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis is a collective term to describe many itchy scalp conditions. Also these included the Pityriasis forms such as: Pityriasis Rotunda, Pityriasis Circinata, Pityriasis Steatoides and Pityriasis Simplex Capitas. Pityriasis is a non pathogenic yeast fungus that produces fine spores. So if you are seeking advice or treatment for Pityriasis then perhaps you would care to contact us. Maybe you would like to Call us and speak with a trichologist and have a free telephone consultation now. You can also arrange an appointment to see a trichologist in person.

Telephone Consultation – Discuss Pityriasis

First of all we pride ourselves on offering the best service to patients. Also you are invited to ring the Holborn Clinic and speak with a registered Trichologist in person. Registered at the Care Quality Commission CQC and the Trichological Society TTS. We can discuss your issue and decide on the best course of action. Maybe we will hear from you soon.

Firstly It takes around 15 minutes. You can either ring the number above or complete the contact form and a trichologist will get back to you. Look forward to hearing from you soon.

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pityriasis

Consultation – Pityriasis

Maybe you would like to arrange a consultation at the Holborn Clinic. You can give us a call or pop your details on the contact form and we can book you in at a convenient time. A consultation lasts for about an hour and will involve examining you both physically and by discussing your medical history. In addition Microscopic equipment is used when required.

The Following gives information on the varying types of Pityriasis

Pityriasis Simplex Capitis (PSC) Syn. P. Sicca aka Dandruff

First of all PSC is a non-inflammatory itchy scalp condition. Also the Stratum Corneum (outer layer of epidermal cells) sheds due to the presence of Pityrosporon Ovale. Most noteworthy, if affects both male and female alike and shows no affiliation to skin type. Our skin continually produces and sheds cells.  Also you cloths will help remove unwanted skin along with cleaning. Most noteworthy, Pityriasis Simplex Capitas may be an indication of a more serious condition. Irritation is often severe and difficult to remove because of the over activity of the skin. Therefore you are advised to source professional advice. 

Pityriasis Circinata

(syn. Pityriasis Rotunda) is a rare condition, presenting as distinct circular, pink/light brown skin and fine scaly pigmented lesions 0.5 – 2.0cm in diameter. In addition Pruritis and Seborrhoea may co-exist. A roughly circular boarder will often be present. Lesions tend to affect the scalp, buttocks, torso, face, and lower extremities (feet and ankles). Pityriasis Circinata is not contagious and is not life threatening. It shows no affiliation to race, colour or gender. Lesions tend to become apparent during 20-45yrs. Research in Sardinia demonstrates that the onset of pityriasis rotunda tends to become apparent during 3-7yrs. The elderly may also be affected. Pityriasis Circinata may be classified as Idiopathic. Autosomal dominant inheritance is likely.

Pityriasis Steatoides

Presents as crusted skin lesions characteristic of seborrhoea. Exfoliation is more profuse than with normal skin and odour may exist therefore you may notice an unusual smell. The scales have a custard appearance with a waxy/sticky texture. The underlying skin may be inflammatory (pink/red) because of the immune response. There may be a visible boarder exhibiting similarities to Pityriasis Circinata. Sufferers include residents of hot humid climates and those who perspire heavily. Excessive production of sebum aids fungus proliferation. PS may affect the scalp, the nose, ears, eyebrows, central chest and back area. Pityriasis Stetoides is non-contagious. 

Rosea

presents as a mild exanthema (a disease accompanied by a skin eruption) at any age (predominantly 10-35yrs). Some suggest that the elderly and very young are immune. Hyper/Hypo pigmentation may be present especially in dark skinned persons. Typically a 1-2cm oval red lesion (“herald” or “mother patch”) forms on the chest or back. The centre may have a wrinkled texture and is often salmon pink.

Scales may be present. Within a few weeks (2-21 days), numerous smaller oval pink lesions may appear on the torso (often resembling a Christmas tree in shape) the limbs and neck. In rare cases the face is inculcated. Females are more susceptible to the disease. PR may be confused with ringworm. Diagnosis is assisted by skin biopsy or blood test. Recurrence is rare. PR is not believed to be contagious or symptomatic of internal disease.

Symptoms

Prodromes (early symptoms) may include: tiredness, nausea, fever, joint ache or pain, lymph node swelling and headaches. Pruritis (itching) is often present.

Causes

PR is classified as idiopathic. Viral infection (herpes 6 and 7) is suspected. Some drugs may induce PR e.g. barbiturates, captopril, gold, bismuth, organic methoxypromazine, metronidazole, D-penicillamine, isotretinoin, mercurials, tripelennamine hydrochloride, ketotifen, and salvarsan. This benign illness is exacerbated by sweating, or bathing in hot water. Symptoms may last six weeks or more.

Treatments may include

Soothing creams, anti-pruritics, corticosteroids (in serious cases). Ultra violet light. Avoiding causes of heavy perspiration and hot baths.

In all cases of pityriasis stetoides, advices should be sought. We are able to manage conditons such as this in most cases. Please contact our helpline for advice on treatments available. Also if you would like to arrange a visit at the Holborn Clinic to see a trichologist.

Versicolor

A common non-contagious skin disorder caused by excessive production of Pityrosporon Orbicular (Malassezia Furfur), a yeast present on normal skin. Typically, PV affects the neck or torso; however the whole body may be affected. In Caucasians, lesions are usually pink or copper coloured. Pruritis and exfoliation may be present. Malassezia Furfur produces a chemical that prevents melanin production – therefore tanning is prevented. It is common in hot humid climates and in persons who perspire heavily. Excessive production of sebum aids fungus proliferation.

Pityriasis versicolor will often be prominent in summer. Recurrence is common. Research suggests that immune deficiencies (e.g. HIV) may assist fungi to spread. The condition is temporary.

Diagnosis –  Confusion with psoriasis and ringworm is alleviated by biopsy. PV fluoresces yellow-green under Wood’s Light. Treatment Ketoconazole. Selenium Sulphate. Zinc Pyrithione. Coal Tar, Peppermint oil shampoos may help in managing the condition. Professional diagnosis should always be sought. Please consult your GP.

Rubra Pilaris

A chronic papulo-squamous disease (a skin eruption composed of papules and loose scaly lesions), characterised by a reddish/orange patchy rash on the scalp, chest or face, which may extend to other regions. Erythroderma (abnormal redness of the skin), scaling and loss of hair may co-exist. Pityriasis Rubra pilaris may be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait or as a sporadic manifestation. The inherited form often onsets from early childhood.
Nail shedding/deterioration may be evident. Both sexes are equally affected. There are no suggested race links. In mild cases Pityriasis Rubra pilaris will affect the elbows and knees. However it may affect the entire body. Pityriasis Rubra pilaris may be confused with Psoriasis.
Cause –  Pityriasis Rubra pilaris is considered an idiopathic condition. Burns, rashes and infections may trigger the onset. Biopsy is a positive diagnostic aid.

Classical adult type

The most common type of PRP.  At onset a scaly patch is exhibited on the scalp or upper torso. Further patches may appear within weeks, which tend to cause red lesions at hair follicle sites. Palms and soles thicken and fissures develop Scales on the scalp thicken.

Atypical adult type

Extremely rare showing similarities to the classical adult form which has no recognised progression. Alopecia is often present. The legs may present severe scaling.

Classical juvenile type

Symptoms identical to the classical adult type, the progression is rapid. Some cases follow infection e.g. sore throat. The onset presents within the first two years of life.

Circumscribed juvenile type 

Affects the elbows and knees presenting follicular plugs surrounded by reddened skin. Patches may appear on the scalp and body especially in pre-pubertal children. It may not show remission until late teens.

Atypical juvenile type

A hereditary condition. Characterized by prominent hyperkeratosis (formation of excess keratin on the surface of the epidermis) on the soles of the feet linked too poor bone development, and frequent erythema.
HIV associated type
Often presents as pustular acne type lesions, which may appear elongated. Patients tend to show resistance to standard treatments. Anti-retro-viral therapies are known to be effective.

Pityriasis Lichenoides

A rare non-contagious skin condition that presents as Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica and Pityriasis Lichenoides et Varioliformis Acuta (PLEVA or Mucha-Haberman’s disease). Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica and PLEVA may affect either sex at any age. Adolescents and young adult males are more susceptible. Typically, the torso, thighs and arms (inner, upper region) may be affected. The scalp and face are rarely inculcated. Pityriasis Lichenoides may last for months or years. Fever may co-exist. Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica presents as small firm red-brown lesions 3-18mm in diameter. Scales may be present. Pruritis may co-exist. The lesions tend to level over a 2-3 week period, leaving a brown macule which will fade within a few months. The condition may be confused with chicken pox or shingles. PLEVA presents as: pruritic, crusted lesions that may blister. Cicatrices (scar tissue) may occur similar to chickenpox. Mouth ulcers may be present.

Cause

Pityriasis Lichenoides is idiopathic. No specific virus or bacteria has been implicated. Hypersensitivity to a micro-organism may contribute. A skin biopsy may assist diagnosis.

Treatment

Consult a Specialist.

Pityriasis Alba (Latin – white)

presents as white or light pink round/oval lesions of approx. 1-4cms). Scales if present are fine and adherent. Examination may reveal lesions with raised edges. Temporary hypo-pigmentation may occur. Pityriasis Alba is a mild benign skin disorder. It may affect anyone but school children with darker skins in tropical countries are most vulnerable. There is no obvious race link. Lesions may worsen during warm weather.
Sites: the face upper arms, neck or shoulder/upper torso. Most cases resolve within a year. Greater exfoliation occurs in cold or dry climates.

Cause

Pityriasis Alba is classed as idiopathic. Exposure to sunlight may be a factor. No conclusive link to bacterial or viral infections currently exists.
Hypo-pigmentation may be caused by Pityrosporon Ovale (yeast), other idiopathic disorders such as vitiligo, or it may be a reaction to some medication e.g. benzoyl peroxide, retinoic acid and some topical steroids.
Treatment –  See your Dermatologist.

Call us on

0207 404 0072

Call us on

0207 404 0072