Subcutaneous granuloma annulare: a review of 47 cases

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to review and provide information regarding characteristic findings, diagnostic work-up, course, and treatment associated with subcutaneous granuloma annulare (SGA).

Materials and methods: The medical and surgical records of 47 patients with SGA, who were diagnosed and treated at our institution over the past 26 years, were reviewed.

Results: All patients presented with a painless soft tissue nodule(s) of the extremities or scalp. The mean age at presentation was 4.3 years, with 19% of the patients encountering one or more recurrences. The mean time of recurrence was 10 months. Definitive diagnosis in all patients was made by biopsy, and no patient progressed to any recognized systemic illness or connective tissue disorder.

Conclusions: SGA is a benign inflammatory skin lesion that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a subcutaneous nodule(s) of the scalp and/or distal extremities of an otherwise healthy child. Because the nodule(s) are benign and may recur with or without surgical biopsy, reassurance is the best management.