What does granuloma annulare look like?

The most common type causes:

Small, firm bumps
Rings or partial rings
Skin-colored, pink, red, brown or bluish-purple areas
Smooth skin without prominent scale
Patches that slowly enlarge

The bumps frequently develop on the:

Backs of the hands
Fingers
Feet
Ankles
Elbows

Some patients develop a more widespread form involving the trunk and limbs. Less common forms can cause bumps beneath the skin or areas that develop a central crust.

Most cases are painless. Some areas itch or feel tender.

Is granuloma annulare the same as ringworm?

No. Granuloma annulare is inflammatory, while ringworm is a contagious fungal infection.

Both can form ring-shaped patches, but ringworm often has a raised, scaly edge and may itch. Granuloma annulare generally consists of smooth bumps without scale.

Using antifungal medication will not treat granuloma annulare.

What causes granuloma annulare?

The exact cause is unknown. It appears to be a reaction occurring within the skin.

In some patients, it develops after:

Minor skin injury
An insect bite
A vaccination
Sun exposure
An infection
Another form of skin irritation

Often, no trigger can be identified.

Widespread granuloma annulare has occasionally been associated with other health conditions, but most patients are otherwise healthy.

How is granuloma annulare diagnosed?

A dermatologist may recognize the condition by examining the skin. Because it can resemble ringworm, sarcoidosis, eczema and other conditions, a biopsy may be recommended.

During a biopsy, a small sample is removed and examined under a microscope.

Additional testing is not routinely necessary but may be considered for widespread, recurrent or unusual cases.

How is granuloma annulare treated?

Many patients do not require treatment because the rash often clears by itself.

When treatment is desired, options may include:

Topical corticosteroid medication
Corticosteroid injections
Cryotherapy
Phototherapy
Prescription oral medication for widespread disease
Monitoring without treatment

Even after successful treatment, granuloma annulare can return.

Schedule a granuloma annulare consultation

Ring-shaped rashes do not all have the same cause. The Dermatology Clinic can distinguish granuloma annulare from fungal infection and other skin conditions and explain whether treatment or observation is appropriate. Contact us today to get scheduled.