Pityriasis Rubra PilarisSymptoms, Doctors, Treatments, Advances & More
Learn About Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris
Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a rare skin disorder that causes inflammation and scaling (exfoliation) of the skin.
PRP; Pityriasis pilaris; Lichen ruber acuminatus; Devergie disease
There are several subtypes of PRP. The cause is unknown, although genetic factors and an abnormal immune response may be involved. One subtype is associated with HIV/AIDS.
PRP is a chronic skin condition in which orange or salmon-colored scaly patches with thick skin develop on the hands and feet.
The scaly areas may cover much of the body. Small islands of normal skin (called islands of sparing) are seen within the areas of the scaly skin. The scaly areas may be itchy. There may be changes in the nails.
PRP can be severe. Although it's not life threatening, PRP can greatly reduce quality of life and limit activities of daily living.
Topical creams containing urea, lactic acid, retinoids, and steroids may help. More commonly, treatment includes pills taken by mouth such as isotretinoin, acitretin, or methotrexate. Exposure to ultraviolet light (light therapy) may also help. Medicines that affect the body's immune system are currently being studied and may be effective for PRP.
Brigham Dermatology Associates
Ruth Vleugels is a Dermatologist practicing medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Vleugels is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris. She is also highly rated in 26 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Dermatomyositis, Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE), Eosinophilic Fasciitis, and Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (CLE). Dr. Vleugels is board certified in Dermatology.
University Andrology Lab LLC
Teri Greiling is a Dermatologist practicing medicine in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Greiling is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris. She is also highly rated in 12 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris, Palmoplantar Keratoderma, Acrokeratoelastoidosis of Costa, and Cicatricial Pemphigoid.
Dermatopathology Lab Hup
Dylan Haynes is a Dermatologist practicing medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dr. Haynes is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris. He is also highly rated in 5 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris, Palmoplantar Keratoderma, Acrokeratoelastoidosis of Costa, and Atopic Dermatitis.
More information and support for people with PRP disorder and their families can be found at:
- National Institute of Health. Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center -- rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/7401/pityriasis-rubra-pilaris
- National Organization for Rare Disorders -- rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/pityriasis-rubra-pilaris/
Contact your provider if you develop symptoms of PRP. Also contact your provider if you have the condition and symptoms worsen.
Published Date: April 01, 2025
Published By: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
James WD. Papulosquamous, pustular and keratotic disorders. In: James WD, ed. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 14th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2026:chap 10.
Patterson JW. Disorders of pigmentation. In: Patterson JW, ed. Weedon's Skin Pathology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 11.
Whittaker S. Erythroderma. In: Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 10.