What is granuloma annulare?
"Granuloma" means a small mass of tissue that forms because of inflammation (swelling). "Annulare" means shaped like a ring.
Granuloma annulare is a harmless skin reaction that causes small, firm, raised bumps on the skin. The bumps form a ring with normal or slightly sunken skin at the center of the ring.
Granuloma annulare is more common in women
You may have a single ring or several rings
Granuloma annulare usually heals without treatment
What causes granuloma annulare?
Doctors don't know what causes granuloma annulare. It may be a reaction from your immune system Overview of the Immune System The immune system is your body's defense system. It helps protect you from illness and infection. The immune system's job is to attack things that don’t belong in your body, including: Germs... read more .
What are the symptoms of granuloma annulare?
Symptoms include small, firm, raised bumps that form on your feet, legs, hands, or finger in a ring shape. The bumps can be bluish, yellowish, or skin-colored. They may be tender.
How can doctors tell if I have granuloma annulare?
Doctors can tell you have granuloma annulare by looking at your skin. To know for sure, doctors may do a biopsy (taking a small piece of skin to look at under a microscope).
How do doctors treat granuloma annulare?
Granuloma annulare usually heals without any treatment. If it bothers you, doctors treat it with:
Corticosteroid creams or shots
Skin cream to treat an immune reaction
Light therapy with medicines to make your skin more sensitive to light
Other medicines or laser therapy
