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Granuloma annulare and malignant neoplasms
Ailing Li1, Daniel J Hogan, I Daniel Sanusi
1Department of Pathology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, Shreveport, USA. ali@lsuhsc.edu
The American Journal of Dermatopathology
|March 26, 2003
Summary
The link between granuloma annulare (GA) and cancer remains unclear. While some cases show associations, particularly with lymphoma, no definitive relationship was established, suggesting further investigation for older patients with atypical GA.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- The association between granuloma annulare (GA) and malignancy is not well-defined.
- Previous studies include case reports and clinical correlations, but lack comprehensive reviews.
- A statistically analyzed summary of reported cases is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and analyze reported cases of granuloma annulare in patients with malignant neoplasms.
- To investigate the potential association between GA and cancer, particularly lymphoma.
- To determine if atypical GA presentations warrant further oncological investigation.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of Medline database (1966-2001).
- Inclusion of 14 case reports and 2 correlation studies.
- Analysis of 16 reported cases regarding patient demographics, clinical presentation, and malignancy type.
Main Results:
- The mean age of patients was 54 years.
- Atypical clinical presentations of GA were common.
- Malignant neoplasms were diagnosed from 18 months prior to 7 years after GA onset, with over half associated with lymphoma.
Conclusions:
- No definitive relationship was established between granuloma annulare and malignant neoplasms.
- Older patients presenting with histologically typical but clinically atypical GA lesions should be evaluated for underlying malignancies, including lymphoma.