Granuloma annulare (gran-U-LOW-muh an-u-LAR-E) is a fairly common skin
condition. The cause of granuloma annulare (GA) is unknown. It is a benign and
often self-limited skin condition. Self-limited means that the condition will
resolve overtime even in the absence of treatment. The lesions may be skin
colored, pinkish or purplish in color and usually have a raised arc or ring-like
shape that sometimes is mistaken for ringworm by non-dermatologists. Unlike
ringworm, granuloma annulare is not scaly and not itchy. In fact, it’s rarely
associated with any symptoms. The lesions most commonly occur on the hands and
arms, but can occur anywhere on the body (face involvement is not common). In
rare cases, it can have a more generalized distribution.
The diagnosis of GA is usually very straightforward for
the dermatologist, who will often make the diagnosis through simple clinical
exam. In some cases a biopsy may be done to solidify the diagnosis, but this is
generally not necessary. No laboratory tests help confirm the diagnosis. Given
the self-limited nature of granuloma annulare, treatment is optional. About
half the cases will resolve within a couple of years, though reoccurrence is
possible. First-line treatment includes high-potency
topical corticosteroids. For thicker lesions, injecting them directly with
corticosteroids is very helpful.
Follow David Robles, MD, PhD
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