PITYRIASIS LICHENOIDES ET VARIOLIFORMIS ACUTA(PLEVA)

 

Serving Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Grimsby and surrounding areas.

General Information:

  • Pityriasis lichenoides is the name given to a rash with two variations.
  • The condition has an acute and a chronic form.
  • The mild chronic form, known as pityriasis lichenoides chronica (PLC), is typically presents with symptomless, small, scaling small bumps that spontaneously flatten, turn brown and regress over a period of weeks.
  • The acute for of pityriasis lichenoides is characterized by the abrupt eruption of small scaling small bumps that develop into blisters and crusted red-brown spots. This acute form is known as pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA).
  • Pityriasis lichenoides most often affects adolescents and young adults, usually appearing before the age of 30.
  • It is slightly more common in males.
  • PLC most commonly occurs over the trunk, buttocks, arms and legs, but may also occur on the hands, feet, face and scalp. There are usually no symptoms.
  • Often PLC may come and go, and can last for months or years.
  • PLEVA is characterized by small scaly bumps which often becomes filled with pus and blood, or are crusted.
  • PLEVA most often occurs on the trunk and extremities andthe spots may be itchy or painful.
  • The cause of pityriasis lichenoides is not yet known
  • Pityriasis Lichenoides is not contagious or due to diet.

Treatment of PLEVA:

 

  • Pityriasis lichenoides may not always respond to treatment and frequently returns when treatment is stopped.
  • The treatment for both PLC and PLEVA is the same.
  • If the rash is not causing symptoms, treatment may not be necessary.
  • Minor outbreaks can be controlled with various creams. 
  • If the rash is not responding after one month, you should contact your doctor.
  • In rare severe cases stronger treatments are required.  These medications have numerous possible side effects and require careful monitoring by your doctor. 

























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