look what i got diagnosed with...

i would just like to start by saying, lucky me. about two weeks ago i find a small itchy spot on my chest which matt dismissed as a zit. this was no zit but who was i to complain? i treated it with some lotion and went on my way. in florida my "zit" was still present along with a rash that spread quickly over the next few days. today i went to my dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis and a prescription to heal whatever it was. not only does she tell me that the cause is unknown but that there is no cure....and it could multiply into hundreds of red bumps lasting several months. like i said, lucky me.

Pityriasis rosea (say: pit-ih-rye-ah-sis row-see-ah) is a scaly, reddish-pink skin rash. It is most common in children and young adults, and usually occurs in spring and fall.

If you get this skin condition, you may feel like you have a cold at first. Then, a single scaly red spot may appear on your back or stomach. This is called a "herald patch." Smaller spots will develop on your body days to weeks later. These spots may itch badly.

What causes pityriasis rosea?
The cause of pityriasis rosea is uncertain. Some doctors believe that pityriasis rosea is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Certain medicines also can cause this rash. Pityriasis rosea is not contagious, so people with this rash do not have to be kept away from other people.

What conditions look like pityriasis rosea?
The rash of pityriasis rosea can look like eczema, ringworm or psoriasis.

How long does pityriasis rosea last?
Pityriasis rosea usually lasts 1 to 3 months and usually never comes back. Let your doctor know if the rash or itching lasts longer than 3 months.

ps: the picture is not me.