It started as a small red patch on Camille’s back. Within about a week it grew to a size slightly larger than a quarter. It was itchy. We kept an eye on it.
As it progressed, it began more and more to take on the characteristics of ringworm. Then, other smaller lesions began to appear.
It was time to take Camille to the doctor, but not before Abby pronounced in the changing room of a store during the first day of tax-free shopping: “My sister’s got ringworm!”
When Susan took Camille to the doctor later in the day, the nurse pronounced it ringworm.
Lucky for us, the doctor had a different diagnosis: pityriasis rosea or PR for short.
Pityriasis rosea (PR) is an acute and characteristic exanthem that has been described for more than 2 centuries. Initially, a primary plaque, called a herald patch, is seen. The herald patch is followed by a distinctive, generalized rash 1-2 weeks later. The rash lasts approximately 2-6 weeks. [via eMedicine]
The upside is that it’s not contageous and that it will eventually go away with a 3% chance that it will reappear.
Phew.