Pityriasis Rosea and Pityriasis Rosea-Like Eruption Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Narrative Review

Abstract

COVID-19 pandemic completely changed every aspect of human life. Several measures were adopted to limit the spreading of the infection. Among these, vaccination was the main one. Globally, vaccination campaign was a success, showing to be efficient in controlling and preventing the SARS-Cov2 infection, reducing the risk of disease progression, hospitalization, and mortality. However, with the increasing number of vaccines administered, several cutaneous reactions were described, making dermatologists key players in their recognition and treatment. Among these, also viral reactivations have been described. In particular, cases of Pityriasis Rosea (PR) and PR-like reactivations have been collected. An early diagnosis is mandatory to avoid mistreatments. In this context, we conducted a review of the current literature investigating cases of PR following COVID-19 vaccination with the aim of understanding the possible pathogenetic mechanisms and causal correlation as well as to investigate the risk of this cutaneous eruption, to offer clinicians a wide perspective on the linkage between PR and COVID-19 vaccines.

L-Lysine as an Alternative Treatment for Pityriasis Rosea (PR) [Response to Letter]

“…We have read with great interest the letter by dos Santos et al entitled “L-lysine as an Alternative Treatment for Pityriasis Rosea (PR)”, 1 commenting our previously published manuscript reviewing current literature on the PR and PR-like eruption following COVID-19 vaccination. 2 It is well known that there is an association between PR and human herpesvirus (HHV) 6–7, which, like all HHV, is characterized by the ability to establish lifelong latency. 3 Among the several cutaneous reactions and viral reactivations reported following COVID-19 vaccination, PR was one of the commonest.…”

“… 6 Moreover, therapeutic approaches to PR have not been discussed in our review, since this disease is usually self-limited. 2 …”

A Case of Persistent Pityriasis Rosea Successfully Treated by a Short Course of Therapy with Abrocitinib

“…[1][2][3] With the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic, the possible viral role in PR eruptions was proposed once again. 4 Generally considered a selflimited disease, PR typically lasts 6-8 weeks, 5 while in less common situations, it can last longer than 12 weeks which is called persistent pityriasis rosea. 6 Traditional treatment with oral antihistamines or topical and oral corticosteroids is advised based on expert consensus.…”