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Granuloma Annulare

Benign chronic skin condition forming smooth ring-shaped plaques over the hands and feet.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Granuloma Annulare?

Granuloma annulare is a benign granulomatous dermatosis of unknown cause characterized by ring-shaped plaques formed by coalescing papules. Lesions are usually asymptomatic and most common on the dorsum of hands and feet.

Several variants exist: localized (most common), generalized, subcutaneous (in children), perforating, and patch type. The generalized form is associated with diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, thyroid disease, and rarely with malignancy or HIV infection.

Most localized lesions resolve spontaneously within 2 years, but recurrence is common. Diagnosis is clinical and confirmed by skin biopsy showing necrobiotic granulomas in the dermis.

Symptoms

Smooth, ring-shaped (annular) plaques
Flesh-colored, pink or red papules
Lesions on dorsum of hands, feet, fingers
Asymptomatic, occasionally mild itching
Subcutaneous nodules in children
Generalized eruption in widespread form
Slow expansion over months

Risk Factors

Diabetes mellitus (especially generalized form)
Dyslipidemia
Thyroid disease
HIV infection (in atypical or generalized cases)
Insect bites or trauma at lesion sites
Female sex (slight predominance)
TNF-alpha inhibitor therapy (paradoxical)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent ring-shaped skin lesions
  • Widespread skin involvement
  • Subcutaneous nodules in a child
  • Failure to resolve within 2 years
  • Cosmetically disturbing lesions
  • Concurrent systemic symptoms

Treatment Methods

01
Observation since most localized cases resolve spontaneously
02
Topical or intralesional corticosteroids
03
Topical tacrolimus or pimecrolimus
04
Cryotherapy for individual lesions
05
Phototherapy (PUVA, UVA1, narrowband UVB)
06
Systemic therapy (hydroxychloroquine, dapsone, isotretinoin) for generalized disease
07
Screening for diabetes and dyslipidemia in generalized cases

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.