Recurrent and persistent pityriasis rosea: an atypical case presentation.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Clinical Case Reports

Background:

• Pityriasis rosea is an acute, self-limiting skin condition typically characterized by a herald patch followed by a generalized eruption.
• While recurrent pityriasis rosea and its association with oral ulcers are documented, they are considered uncommon presentations.

Observation:

• A 24-year-old Malay man presented with an 11-month history of three distinct episodes of pityriasis rosea.
• Each episode was characterized by prolonged duration (1-7 months) and short remission periods (9-14 days).
• Oral ulcers were present concurrently with the skin eruptions, and a herald patch appeared at different sites in each episode.

Findings:

• This case represents a unique and highly atypical presentation of pityriasis rosea.
• The patient experienced multiple, persistent recurrences with extended duration and minimal inter-episode intervals.
• The association with oral ulcers further contributes to the distinctiveness of this clinical presentation.

Implications:

• This report expands the known spectrum of pityriasis rosea, emphasizing the need for vigilance in diagnosing atypical variants.
• Understanding such rare presentations can aid clinicians in managing challenging cases and contribute to the literature on pityriasis rosea.
• Further research may explore potential underlying mechanisms or triggers for these prolonged and recurrent forms of pityriasis rosea.