Ring Granuloma Symptoms And Treatment

In this article, we provide information on ring granuloma. We will tell you what are the symptoms of ring granuloma and how it can be treated. So read on!

Ring granuloma is not a very common disease. It can be obtained by anyone, but it usually occurs in children around the age of 10. The reason for this is not known, but statistics show that it affects more women than men.

The ailment does not usually cause harm, but it is very visible, which is why it is often an aesthetic problem. On the other hand, in some people, the nodules shrink violently.

The disease is still being studied, but it seems to be linked to some infections and even tumors. Keep reading to find out more.

What is granuloma annulare?

As we have already mentioned, it is a chronic and inflammatory skin disease in which elevated, red nodules form ring-shaped on the skin. It is usually found on the back of the palms and feet.

It is known to affect more women and children, but the exact cause is not known. Nevertheless, some triggers are known. For example, it may be a side effect of some medications.

Another possible cause is a bite or sting of some insects, and may even be a reaction to certain vaccines. Ring granuloma is also associated with infections such as hepatitis. Nevertheless, it is important to point out that it is not a contagious disease.

Although ring granuloma usually disappears on its own within a couple of years without treatment, it is important to examine it thoroughly. Researchers are trying to find out if it is related to other, whole-body diseases.

Ring granuloma appears to be associated with certain thyroid diseases and diabetes. It can also be caused by some carcinogenic processes. In these cases, there are usually more nodules around the body and they do not respond well to treatment.

What are the symptoms of ring granuloma?

Ring granuloma does not cause any symptoms other than nodules. These nodules can vary in color, from bluish to skin-colored and red. They are all annular and expand outwards, with their center slightly submerged relative to the edges.

The nodules are sensitive to touch, but they do not cause pain. However, they can be aesthetically disruptive or cause itching, especially when they are abundant throughout the body.

Ring granuloma is classified into different groups:

• The first group includes local ring granuloma, which is the most common form. It is normally found on the back of the palms and soles of the feet, and skin changes can be up to 5 centimeters in diameter.

• There is also a generalized ring granuloma that spreads throughout the body.
• Then there is still the subcutaneous granuloma, where the nodules are small and hard and usually do not flush.

How is ring granuloma treated?

Ring granuloma causes easily identifiable skin changes, i.e. it is usually easy to diagnose. If there is any ambiguity in the diagnosis, a dermatologist may sometimes require a skin biopsy. As we mentioned earlier, nodules normally disappear on their own over a period of time.

For this reason, the ailment normally lasts for a maximum of two years and therefore does not necessarily need to be treated. However, it can be disturbing aesthetically or due to itching.

There are treatment options for these problems. In some cases, corticosteroid creams can be used to help skin changes disappear more quickly. Corticosteroid injections are also possible if the disease does not respond to ointments.

In some cases, phototherapy is used to treat ring granuloma. If the nodules are widespread and are everywhere, oral medications may be prescribed. However, the most important thing is to see a doctor and let the expert decide on the best form of treatment.