Granuloma Annulare: An Updated Review of Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, and Treatment Options

Am J Clin Dermatol. 2022 Jan;23(1):37-50. doi: 10.1007/s40257-021-00636-1. Epub 2021 Sep 8.

Abstract

Granuloma annulare (GA) is an inflammatory granulomatous skin disease that can be localized (localized GA) or disseminated (generalized GA), with patch, perforating, and subcutaneous subtypes being less common variants of this benign condition. Recently, new research has emerged that further elucidates GA epidemiology and etiopathogenesis; importantly, new therapeutic options for GA have also been described, although there remains a paucity of randomized controlled studies. In this review, we summarize recent updates on GA epidemiology and etiopathogenesis and offer an updated review of the therapeutic options for GA currently reported in the literature. We hope that the current review galvanizes randomized controlled studies that will in turn help lead to the recommendation of evidence-based treatments for GA.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antimalarials / therapeutic use
  • Biological Therapy
  • Comorbidity
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Diabetes Complications
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Granuloma Annulare / diagnosis
  • Granuloma Annulare / epidemiology
  • Granuloma Annulare / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease
  • Infections / complications
  • Methotrexate / therapeutic use
  • Neoplasms / complications
  • Pentoxifylline / therapeutic use
  • Phosphodiesterase 4 Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Phototherapy
  • Piperidines / therapeutic use
  • Pyrimidines / therapeutic use
  • Thalidomide / analogs & derivatives
  • Thalidomide / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Antimalarials
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Phosphodiesterase 4 Inhibitors
  • Piperidines
  • Pyrimidines
  • Thalidomide
  • tofacitinib
  • Pentoxifylline
  • apremilast
  • Methotrexate