O'Brien's actinic granuloma: an unusually extensive presentation

O'Brien's actinic granuloma is a rare skin disease. Controversy continues over whether it should be considered a specific condition or a form of granuloma annulare located in sun-exposed areas. Its pathogenesis is unknown; however, the most widely accepted hypothesis suggests that solar radiation is the triggering factor. This paper describes the case of a 78-year old, fair-skinned male, who presented with a 10-year history of an infiltrate of annular erythematous papules on his forehead and left malar region. The diagnosis of O'Brien actinic granuloma was established from histopathology, since the clinical condition of the patient was extensive, unlike cases reported in the literature.