Benign skin rash characterized by erythematous plaques that usually begin on the chest, back and/or abdomen and may spread to the rest of the body. Although it can appear at any age, it predominates in older children and young adults.
The cause is unknown, but is thought to be due to a viral infection. It is not contagious from person to person.
Initial symptoms are similar to a common cold: headache, fever, sore throat and/or nasal congestion. They are followed by the appearance of a large, round scaly skin lesion, which after a few days spreads in the form of smaller lesions over the rest of the body. These lesions are usually associated with intense itching.
Diagnosis is clinical, based on questioning and physical examination. If there are diagnostic doubts, the study can be completed with blood tests and a biopsy.
Treatment is based on relieving itching with antihistamines and/or lotions; home remedies such as baths with warm water may help to reduce itching. Phototherapy may accelerate the disappearance of skin lesions. Finally, antiviral drugs are used in cases clearly associated with a viral infection.
If you have any of these symptoms or if, once diagnosed, they do not disappear within 12 weeks, consult a specialist.
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