Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

What is pityriasis rosea?

1. A fungal infection of the skin

2. A viral infection affecting only the scalp

3. A skin disease causing red patches

4. A chronic autoimmune disorder

The correct answer is: A skin disease causing red patches

Pityriasis rosea is characterized as a skin disease that causes red patches to appear on the skin. It often begins with a single, larger patch known as a "herald patch," followed by the development of smaller patches. The condition typically manifests with a variety of symptoms including mild itching and is believed to be linked to viral infections, although the exact cause remains unclear. Most cases resolve on their own within a few weeks to a few months without medical treatment. This condition is distinct from fungal infections, which are caused by pathogens like yeast or mold, and do not typically present the same way as pityriasis rosea. Additionally, it does not only affect the scalp or represent a chronic autoimmune disorder, making the selection of the correct option based on the specific and recognizable symptoms of pityriasis rosea.