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Granuloma annulare in the hand
I Grant1, P Mohammed, P J Mahaffey
1Lister Hospital, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK.
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|December 12, 2002
Summary
Granuloma annulare commonly presents as annular or subcutaneous hand lesions, often resolving spontaneously within a year. Recurrence is frequent but typically does not require repeat biopsy for diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Rheumatology
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Granuloma annulare is a benign inflammatory skin condition.
- Hand involvement can manifest in various forms, impacting diagnosis and management.
- Understanding typical presentations and natural history is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the clinical presentation of granuloma annulare in the hand.
- To evaluate the diagnostic methods and natural course of hand granuloma annulare.
- To assess the need for repeat biopsies in recurrent cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patient cases diagnosed with granuloma annulare affecting the hand.
- Analysis of lesion morphology, location, size, and diagnostic confirmation via surgical biopsy.
- Observation of lesion resolution timelines and recurrence patterns.
Main Results:
- Granuloma annulare presented as annular or subcutaneous lesions, predominantly on the dorsum of the metacarpophalangeal joints of the middle or ring fingers.
- Lesions averaged 10 mm in diameter and diagnosis was confirmed histopathologically.
- Most cases showed spontaneous resolution within one year; recurrence was common but did not require re-biopsy.
Conclusions:
- Granuloma annulare in the hand exhibits characteristic clinical features and location.
- Spontaneous resolution is common, and recurrent lesions generally do not require repeat biopsy.
- This review aids in the diagnosis and management of hand granuloma annulare.