Highlights & Basics
- Typically asymptomatic, and presents as small grouped papules in an annular configuration.
- Localized disease is the most common subtype; patients are often women in their 30s.
- Most cases are self-limited, with at least 50% resolving within 2 years. However, recurrences are common.
- A possible association with underlying malignancy has been postulated, particularly in older patients with atypical or generalized clinical presentation such as palmar plaques or erythroderma. However, this association has been challenged in a recent cohort study.
- Although evidence is limited, may be associated with thyroid disease, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes.
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Citations
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Thornsberry LA, English JC 3rd. Etiology, diagnosis, and therapeutic management of granuloma annulare: an update. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2013 Aug;14(4):279-90.[Abstract]
Piette EW, Rosenbach M. Granuloma annulare: pathogenesis, disease associations and triggers, and therapeutic options. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016 Sep;75(3):467-79.[Abstract]
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