Pityriasis for over three months, should it still be spreading?

Dear Ask The Doctor: I've had pityriasis for over 3 months, I've taken Valtrex and used all sorts of creams, should new spots still be forming?

Dear Tami: Pityriasis is a skin rash caused due to an unknown agent (most probably a virus or exposure to drugs like penecilline, barbiturates, organic mercurilas etc). The initial lesion or "herald patch" is first observed, followed by pale scaly skin eruptions on the body after a day or a week. The lesions are 4-5mm in diameter and present in a symmetrical longitudinal pattern over the trunk (somewhat like a Christmas tree pattern).

The symptoms are fever, headache, sore throat and general lethargy.  Usually the disease is not serious and no treatment is required. The treatment is generally supportive. If the itching is severe, antihistamines and topical coticosteroids may be given. The disease resolves by 2-3 months and there is no recurrence. If you do not see any improvement you may have to meet with your doctor to see if exposure to certain drugs or chemicals may be the cause or to think of an alternative diagnosis.