Subcutaneous granuloma annulare mimicking dermatomyositis

We present three children who presented with papules and plaques over the knuckles, mimicking Gottron's papules of juvenile dermatomyositis, as well as subcutaneous nodules over the joints of the extremities that were initially thought to represent calcinosis cutis. However, thorough clinical and laboratory evaluation, as well as imaging, failed to support this diagnosis. Skin biopsies were consistent with a diagnosis of subcutaneous granuloma annulare. This unique phenotype of granuloma annulare should be recognized in order to prevent erroneous diagnosis and treatment.