Very limited research has examined the relationship between pityriasis rosea and anemia, but it may be possible to have both conditions.

For instance, a 2014 study involving 52 people with pityriasis rosea found that 10 people had anemia.

However, this isn’t enough evidence to suggest a strong correlation between pityriasis rosea and anemia.

The cause of pityriasis rosea isn’t yet known. But researchers think it may be related to bacterial, viral, or spirochetal infections. It may also be a side effect of injections, such as from vaccinations.

Some symptoms of pityriasis rosea may be similar to those of anemia.

Pityriasis rosea

According to the National Health Service (NHS), pityriasis rosea usually occurs in two stages:

  1. A dry, circular, and slightly raised plaque measuring up to 5 centimeters in diameter may appear on your chest, thigh, arm, or neck. This is called a herald patch.
  2. A rash of small, discolored spots may appear on your chest or back around 5 to 15 days later.

It’s also possible to experience systemic symptoms a few days before the herald rash appears, such as fatigue, sore throat, headache, and fever.

These symptoms may be similar to those commonly associated with anemia.

Anemia

Anemia occurs when you have a low red blood cell count. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen from your lungs to your organs and tissues.

Low levels of red blood cells may lead to the following symptoms:

  • weakness
  • fatigue
  • headache
  • pale skin
  • shortness of breath

Although some of these symptoms are similar, they may also be a sign of another health condition.

Some anemia and rare blood disorders may cause purple pinpoint spots on the skin, which may look like a rash. Some causes may include:

Pityriasis rosea is a self-containing rash, which means it usually heals on its own.

However, a doctor may recommend emollients and antihistamines to help relieve itching. In more severe cases, they can prescribe a steroid cream.

If you experience systemic symptoms of Pityriasis rosea or anemia but don’t have a rash, speak with a healthcare professional. They could assess your symptoms and perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.