Pityriasis lichenoides

Patients should be reassured that pityriasis lichenoides is an idiopathic inflammatory dermatitis that usually has a benign, yet variable, course. However, they should be warned about the very rare neoplastic and paraneoplastic potential of pityriasis lichenoides. If patients are very concerned about this possibility, they can be advised to undergo a baseline physical examination and laboratory analysis, as well as age-appropriate cancer screening, by their primary care physician. Patients should adhere to prescribed therapies and promptly report any changes in their skin condition, side effects of treatment, and complications. They should anticipate close and regular follow-up visits for skin evaluation. In addition, it would be helpful for patients with frequent recurrences to be vigilant for (keep a diary of) the potential triggering and/or exacerbating factors of their disease and minimize these exposures.