Granuloma annulare
The rash
The rash is usually the only symptom of granuloma annulare, and most people with it are otherwise healthy. It may be slightly itchy, but it isn't usually painful.
There may be a number of rings that grow slowlyuntil they're about2.5-5cm (1-2 inches)across. They then becomeflatter and more purple in colour, before eventually fading.
In rare cases, the rash may spread all over the body, or there may be one or more firm lumps under the skin of the arms or legs (this is known as subcutaneous granuloma annulare).
Granuloma annulare usually disappears without treatment within two years, although it can sometimes last for many years and new rings may appear.It's not infectious or caused by Indoor allergy .
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Granuloma annulare is a long-lasting rash that looks like a ring of small red or skin-coloured bumps.
What causes granuloma annulare?
In granuloma annulare, the dermis (the tissue underneath the top layer of skin, which is known as the epidermis) becomes hypersensitive and inflamed. It's notclear what causes the skin toreact in this
The rash
The rash is usually the only symptom of granuloma annulare, and most people with it are otherwise healthy. It may be slightly itchy, but it isn't usually painful. There may be a number of rings tha
What to do
Contact your GP if you notice a ring anywhere on your skin that doesn't go away within a few weeks. They'll be able to rule out other possible causes,likea fungal infection. Becausegranuloma annulare
How it's treated
There's no specific treatment for granuloma annulare and evidence for the use of medication is limited. Strong steroid creams or ointments, or steroid injections directly into the rings,may help to c
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