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One hundred and twenty-six cases of pityriasis rosea seen over two years in north Staffordshire were analysed for clustering in time and space. A statistically significant degree of clustering was found; this was evident among female patients considered separately but not among male patients. The incidence of the condition was higher in patients working in, or attending, educational establishments.These findings support the hypothesis that pityriasis rosea is caused by an infective agent. A search for an infective organism and a transmission mechanism now seems justifiable.

We present the results of a prospective questionnaire-based audit of admissions to dermatology beds. We examined the admission practices of clinicians and the outcome in terms of benefit to patients. The majority of patients (90%) were admitted because of the severity of their skin disease but other contributing factors included: inability to cope (40%); need for further investigation or observation (33%); coexisting medical factors (17%); poor social support; transport and psychological factors. Most (87%) patients benefited from admission and the dermatology life quality index improved by 42%. We demonstrate that inpatient treatment is effective and improves patients' quality of life.

Amiodarone is a potent cardiac antiarrhythmic agent which has been used in Europe for more than a decade but which has only recently become available in Britain. Facial pigmentation and photosensitivity are well recognised side effects,'-4 but their incidence is disputed. We report the incidence of photosensitivity in a large group of patients receiving amiodarone at a regional cardiothoracic centre.

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