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The granuloma annulare phenotype and tuberculosis
1Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona 85259, USA.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|June 14, 2002
Summary
Granuloma annulare may be a skin manifestation of tuberculosis, challenging its historical dismissal. Treating tuberculosis effectively cleared associated skin lesions in a reported case.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Historically, granuloma annulare (GA) was linked to tuberculosis (TB).
- This association has been largely disregarded in recent decades.
- The current understanding views GA as a distinct entity.
Observation:
- A case of chronic, poorly treated tuberculosis with erythema induratum presented with lesions resembling GA.
- Clinical and histological findings were consistent with GA.
- Skin lesions resolved following antituberculosis therapy.
Findings:
- This case suggests a potential link between specific TB presentations and GA.
- Summarizes previous reports of GA and TB co-occurrence.
- Highlights other systemic diseases associated with GA, indicating diverse etiologies.
Implications:
- Granuloma annulare might represent a macrophage-granulomatous response to various underlying conditions, not a disease sui generis.
- Reconsidering the TB-GA association in specific clinical contexts is warranted.
- This broadens the perspective on GA's potential triggers and diagnostic considerations.