Definition of the pink pityriasis of Gibert
The pityriasis rosea is a disease of the skin and benign fairly common which is named after the French dermatologist Camille-Melchior Gibert, which was first described the disease in 1860.
This pathology is manifested by the formation of red patches on the skin, mainly at the torso , armsand thighs . The origin of this disease is not well known, many doctors agree that an infection caused by a virus could be responsible. The pink pityriasis of Gibert is mainly for children over 10, teenagers and young adults. In most cases, the cutaneous lesions evolve spontaneously towards the cure without specific treatment.
The pink pityriasis of Gibert refers to a skin disease that is characterized by the formation of pink patches on different parts of the body (especially on the thorax and the abdomen). Benign and non-contagious , this disease is due to a reactivation of a herpes virus whose primary infection usually occurred in childhood.
Symptoms of pink pityriasis of Gibert
The pink pityriasis of Gibert begins with a single pink plate, round or oval in shape, about 2 to 5 cm in diameter.
A few days ago, fatigue and headaches appear. The edge of the plate is darker in color, and the center paler.
Then, a few days to a fortnight later, appear small plates of the same appearance, oval ( medallions ) and red, brown or pink depending on the individual. The center of the plates is slightly wrinkled and the lesions are covered with scales (small white skins).
Each plate is clearly delineated by a pink border. The lesions usually sit on the thorax, abdomen, thighs (inner part), arms and pubis. New plates still appear in waves for 1 to 2 weeks. Most of the time, they do not itch and disappear in a fortnight. The disease lasts about 2 months.
The frequency of Gibert pityriasis rosé is higher in people between 10 and 30 years old . Women are more affected than men.
Diagnostic of pink pityriasis of Gibert
It is not necessary to use tests to establish the diagnosis. The clinical observation and some questions asked to the person affected allow the doctor to confirm his diagnosis.
It usually prescribes serological tests ( blood tests ). It is a question of looking for a syphilis which can, at a certain stage, resemble the eruption of Gilbert’s pink pityriasis. It is also important to screen for HIV (AIDS virus). A sample from the area of a plaque is sometimes necessary, as this pityriasis may resemble circulating herpes due to yeast.
Treatment of pink pityriasis of Gibert
No treatment is necessary. The red plaques evolve towards healing between 5 and 8 weeks after their appearance and leave no scar. But their disappearance can sometimes be longer (2-3 months).
The doctor may recommend the use of a mild vegetable soap , such as oatmeal soap for example. If the lesions cause itching, corticosteroids or antihistamines may be prescribed, or some sessions of UV rays.
Complementary approaches
Some solutions are offered in complementary medicine, but not necessarily useful, since the disease heals itself and has no character of gravity.
Homeopathy
In homeopathy are used: Arsenicum iodatum in 9 CH with Sepia in 5 CH, especially in case of itching, if the skin is dry and particularly large dander. Take 3 granules each three times a day.
If the scales are fine, prefer Arsenicum album in 5 CH.
If the itching is intense, take Graphites in 15 CH.
Cantharis in 5 CH is used in case of blisters or tearing of the superficial part of the skin.
More generally, if the symptoms are more diffuse, one can opt for Berberis vulgaris in 5 CH at the rate of 5 granules twice a day.
aromatherapy
Some plants are traditionally used: for example 1 ml of Lavender aspic essential oil and Geranium rosat can be combined with half a milliliter of German chamomile, peppermint, green myrtle and 15 ml of olive oil. Calendula.
Apply this preparation 2 to 3 times a day.