Granuloma annulare

Overview

Granuloma annulare makes rings of small, smooth, skin-colored or red bumps, often on the backs of hands and feet.

It isn't contagious and usually fades in months to 2 years.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Ring of bumps
• Ring-shaped rash

Less common

• Mild itching

Look up a symptom: Ring-shaped rash

When to get medical care

Causes

Unknown.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Children and young adults: The ring-shaped type is most common
• Women: About twice as likely

Possible complications

• Skin color changes: Spots may leave light or dark marks

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Leave it alone or ask about steroid cream
• Use steroid creams

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children and young adults: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually goes away on its own.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Should I be tested for diabetes?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Granuloma annulare