Then, overnight, those three dots became hundreds of dots all over my body like a red ... rash often caused by viral infections called pityriasis rosea. The doctor sent me away with a cream ...

Pityriasis rosea (PR) is an acute inflammatory skin disorder ... on the trunk in a characteristic Christmas tree-like pattern. Body surfaces with significant sun exposure are usually not affected.

Pityriasis rosea is a common skin condition that causes a set of temporary red, scaly rashes. These mild rashes aren't contagious and usually clear up without medical treatment in 10 weeks or less.