Granuloma Annulare Treatment in Midland, TX
What is Granuloma Annulare?
Granuloma Annulare, is a non-contagious, harmless skin condition that is characterized by small, raised bumps that form in a ring-like pattern. In most cases, the bumps range from 1-5 centimeters. The lesions normally affect the feet, hands, and fingers; however, this skin condition can appear on various locations of the body.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Granuloma Annulare?
Each person may experience Granuloma Annulare symptoms differently; however, the most common signs of Granuloma Annulare include:
- Firm, thickened bumps that are either skin-colored, red, or yellowish
- One or more ring-like patterns of bumps on the body
There are different types of Granuloma Annulare, which produce varying signs and symptoms: Localized, Generalized, and Under the Skin.
- Localized: The most common type of Granuloma Annulare. Characteristics of Localized Granuloma Annulare include one or more skin-colored or red bumps in a ring-like pattern, usually on the hands, feet, wrists, and ankles.
- Generalized: This type is not as common as Localized Granuloma Annulare. Characteristics of Generalized Granuloma Annulare include bumps that form an itchy or uncomfortable rash on large portions of the body, such as the trunk, arms, and legs.
- Under the Skin: This type normally affects young children. Characteristics of this type include small, firm bumps under the skin, rather than a rash. The location of the lumps usually form on the hands, scalp, and shins.
What Causes Granuloma Annulare?
While it is unclear the direct cause of Granuloma Annulare, a variety of attributes may trigger the condition, such as:
- Certain medications
- Trauma or minor skin injuries
- Bites from an animal or insect
- Various viral infections, such as hepatitis
- Sun exposure
- Tuberculosis or tuberculin skin tests
- Thyroid disease
- Diabetes
Who is Most Likely to be Affected by Granuloma Annulare?
Granuloma Annulare is more common in females than males. While Granuloma Annulare can affect patients of all ages and genders, it most commonly affects children and young adults on their hands and feet. In addition, Granuloma Annulare is sometimes associated with people who are diagnosed with diabetes or thyroid disease.
Treatment Options for Granuloma Annulare
Since Granuloma Annulare is not contagious and usually clears up on its own, treatment is typically not necessary. Clearing up of the skin on its own usually takes anywhere from a few months, up to a few years. If the symptoms of Granuloma Annulare are bothering you, whether that is the appearance, itch, discomfort, etc., visiting with a dermatologist to discuss treatment options may help.
Treatments will be dependent on the type of Granuloma Annulare you are experiencing, your medical history, your personal preferences, and other factors. Some of the treatment options may include:
- Topical corticosteroids
- Injections of corticosteroids
- Cryosurgery
- Medication
- Light therapy
Although Granuloma Annulare normally clears up on its own, it also tends to return months or years after it clears. This happens whether or not you treat it.
There are a variety of skin conditions that may have the appearance of Granuloma Annulare that should be evaluated by a physician to ensure the skin condition is not something of concern.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re looking for treatment for Granuloma Annulare, or treatment for bumps in a ring-like pattern, in Midland, Texas, we would love to see you at Midland Dermatology! Our board-certified dermatologists and certified physician assistants can help diagnose, manage and treat your skin condition.
For more information or to schedule an appointment at Midland Dermatology, call 432-689-2512.
*The content provided in this post is for informational purposes and does not diagnose or treat any medical conditions or diseases. Always seek guidance from a physician regarding any medical concerns you may have.
