Pityriasis rosea in Nigerians

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Pityriasis rosea is a common skin condition.
• Previous studies suggest geographical variations in its presentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemiology and clinical presentation of pityriasis rosea in Nigerian patients.
• To compare findings with European and other African studies.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 138 Nigerian patients diagnosed with pityriasis rosea.
• Data collected from two skin clinics in Northern Nigeria over three years.
• Inclusion criteria: confirmed diagnosis of pityriasis rosea.

Main Results:

• Pityriasis rosea accounted for 2.4% of all dermatology consultations.
• The condition presented with more florid manifestations and atypical distribution, including facial and oral involvement, in Nigerian patients.
• Age and sex distribution were similar to European series, with a slightly lower age of onset observed.
• No seasonal variation in the frequency of pityriasis rosea was identified.

Conclusions:

• Pityriasis rosea exhibits distinct epidemiological and clinical characteristics in Nigerian populations compared to European cohorts.
• The higher prevalence and more severe presentation in Nigeria warrant further investigation into potential environmental or genetic factors.
• Clinical awareness should be heightened for atypical presentations of pityriasis rosea in African populations.