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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris Be Treated?

yes, thank you-- husband diagnosed with pityriasis rubra pilaris -- taking acitretin once a day. He developed open sores or rashes all over his chest /back. Huge swelling in feet and legs. I am concerned about infection from these lesions --- is it normal-- the lesions? No fever.
Fri, 22 Jun 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.

I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.



Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a very rare skin condition with red swollen areas so it is normal for your husband to have those lesions. Acitretin is the first line treatment and your husband is taking it. If this is not helpful enough than methotrexate is another treatment doctors try.

Infection is a risk with all skin lesions and pityriasis rubra pilaris also. The way to know they are getting infected is that when infection happens the lesions get very painful and hot to palpation. Sometimes they might ooze and create honey color crusts. The patient might also get fever if infection gets worse. So if any of these develops it is important to consult your doctor.



Hope I have answered your query.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Kind regards,

Antoneta Zotaj, MD
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How Can Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris Be Treated?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a very rare skin condition with red swollen areas so it is normal for your husband to have those lesions. Acitretin is the first line treatment and your husband is taking it. If this is not helpful enough than methotrexate is another treatment doctors try. Infection is a risk with all skin lesions and pityriasis rubra pilaris also. The way to know they are getting infected is that when infection happens the lesions get very painful and hot to palpation. Sometimes they might ooze and create honey color crusts. The patient might also get fever if infection gets worse. So if any of these develops it is important to consult your doctor. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Kind regards, Antoneta Zotaj, MD