Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a skin disorder that causes constant inflammation and scaling (exfoliation) of the skin. PRP is not really a single condition, but rather a group of unusual eruptions that cause red scaly patches containing dry plugged pores. It may cover the entire body, or just the elbows and knees. PRP mostly affects adults over 40, but some children are also affected. PRP most often starts as a patchy rash on the scalp, face or chest. Over a period as short a several weeks it extends downward, and often covers much of the body. It spares areas of old scars and injuries, and leaves small islands of entirely unaffected skin. The rash has an orange-red color ("salmon") and the palms and soles become thickened. Rough, dry plugs can be felt within the rash.



PRP occurs equally among men and women. Most people who develop PRP are over age 50. Adult-onset PRP most often starts on the head, neck and upper trunk as a red scaly rash. Often there is a solitary lesion but within a few weeks multiple patches appear and they join together to form groups of reddish-orange lesions. The palms and soles become thickened and yellow coloured. Cracks may develop which can be painful and make walking and using the hands difficult. The nails may become thickened and discoloured at the free nail edge and may show linear black streaks. The hair may thin considerably. Treatment is exceedingly difficult and empiric. Scaling may be improved with emollients or 12% lactic acid under occlusive dressing, followed by topical corticosteroids. Oral vitamin A may be effective.

Calcipotriol is a vitamin D analogue that has been used in the topical treatment of psoriasis. Methotrexate may put the PRP into remission, so it goes away and stays away. Petroleum jelly or one of the many proprietary emollients may be used. Topical medications such as emollients may be used to relieve symptoms of dryness and cracking. In severe cases acitretin or isotretinoin may be useful. Emollients reduce fissuring and dryness, providing some patient comfort. Petroleum jelly or one of the many proprietary emollients may be used. Infliximab is a new drug with potential for treating a number of inflammatory skin diseases. The goals of pharmacotherapy are to reduce morbidity and to prevent complications. Derivative of vitamin A known as Acitretin or isotretinoin can also be used.

Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris Treatment Tips

1. Accutane or Soriatane pills are the best treatment.

2. Topical medications such as emollients may be used to get relive from dryness and cracking.

3. Derivative of vitamin A known as Acitretin or isotretinoin can also be used to get rid pityriasis rubra pilaris.

4. Methotrexate, a strong drug that suppresses the immune system may help pityriasis rubra pilaris.

5. Steroid creams and ointments may also be used to remove the rashes