Granuloma Annulare

Definition

It is a chronic skin condition characterized by small, raised bumps that form a ring. Granuloma annulare forms - multiple small skin-colored, erythematous or violaceous lesions on the trunk and on the limbs, and other joints or in places of mild injury such as the back of the hands or top of the feet. This skin disease is most common among children and young adults. The bumps often expand or join to form rings. The center of each ring may be a little depressed, pale or light brown. The papules of granuloma annulare usually occur on the distal extremities and over bony-prominences, but can also arise in a more generalized distribution.

Causes of Granuloma Annular

• A number of diseases like - trauma, tuberculosis, streptococcal infection and collagen vascular disorder may sometimes lead to formation of granuloma annular.
• Granuloma annular most often affects children and young adults. It is slightly more common in girls.
• Sometimes, the disease may may be associated with diabetes or thyroid disease.
• In some cases granuloma annular observed in identical twins and siblings in several generations. Thus to some extent heredity is also responsible for granuloma annular disease.
• Granuloma annular may be spread by insect bites, sun exposure, thyroiditis and herpes zoster virus.
• Some viral infections are also one of main cause of granuloma annular. Viral Infections such as EBV, HIV, Hepatitis C and malignant conditions are responsible for it.
• Some drugs also may cause granuloma annular as a side effect. Some of the drugs may include - allopurinol, zalcitabine.
• Granuloma annular may be associated with malignancy, AIDS, and herpes zoster lesions.

Symptoms of Granuloma Annulare

Symptoms of Granuloma Annular may as includes:-

• The lesions are painless and usually do not itch. The ring's center is often darker than the edge. Ringed lesions change in size and shape over a period of several weeks to 6 months.
• Occasionally, multiple rings may be found.
• Granuloma annulare produces small red bumps which can be seen on back of hands, soles of feet, arms, back of lower legs, back of knees or on elbows.
• Yellow skin lumps may also be seen in some chronic cases.
• The papules that appear on the lower extremities are frequently darker than those that appear in other places.
• Granuloma annulare may appear as a firm nodule under the skin of the arms or legs.

Treatments of Granuloma Annulare

• Ultraviolet light therapy (PUVA) or oral medications are also very effective in some cases of granuloma annulare.
• The topical steroids cream is very effective or helpful in the disappearance of the lesions.
• Topical Corticosteroids: These are very much suitable to get relief from pain and reduce the swelling part of the skin.
• Some physicians may choose to freeze the lesions with liquid nitrogen.