Granuloma annulare

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Granuloma, annulare on the elbow

Granuloma, annulare on the legs

Granuloma annulare - close-up

Granuloma annulare on the eyelid

Because granuloma annulare is usually asymptomatic (causes no symptoms), treatment may not be necessary except for cosmetic reasons.

Very strong topical steroid creams or ointments are sometimes used to speed the disappearance of the lesions. Injections of steroids directly into the rings may also be effective. Some physicians may choose to freeze the lesions with liquid nitrogen.

In severe cases, ultraviolet light therapy (PUVA) or oral medications may be needed.

Most lesions of granuloma annulare disappear with no treatment within two years. Sometimes, however, the rings can remain for many years. The appearance of new rings years later is not uncommon.

Call your physician if you notice a ring anywhere on your skin that does not go away within a few weeks.

Review Date: 07/27/2006
Reviewed By: Shlomit Halachmi, MD, PhD, Private Practice Specializing in Dermatology, Somerville, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.