Females are also much more likely to have pityriasis rosea than males.
The symptoms of pityriasis rosea can last anywhere from several weeks to several months. This appears as a single, large pinkish, reddish, or brownish-colored patch that is round to oval in shape and slightly raised. There is usually a scaly circular center as well. Because of its appearance, the herald patch may be mistaken for ringworm which, in contrast to pityriasis rosea, is contagious, caused by fungus, and requires antifungal medication. One to two weeks later, more smaller, but similar, patches will manifest on the trunk, arms, and legs.