Granuloma Annulare Treatment

Granuloma annulare is a skin disorder characterized by a ring shape, localized nodular inflammation occurring in the middle layer of the skin called dermis. Its exact cause is not yet known. It usually disappears on its own over a period of time, and the time length does not extend beyond 2 years.

According to observations, it mostly affects girls of less than 15 years of age. The common places of its occurrence are hands and feet. It is generally benign in nature. However, many people go for its treatment or more specifically removal only because of cosmetic reasons. Following is a brief description on its medical and natural treatment.

➜ Corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory properties and thus are used in curing the reddening and swelling of the skin part affected with granuloma annulare. They do it by modifying the body's immune response to different types of stimuli.

➜ Corticosteroids are usually the first thing prescribed in all the treatment methods, because inflammation has to be reduced to improve the condition and appearance of the skin lesion.

➜ Some examples of corticosteroids that are commonly used include clobetasol propionate and triamcinolone acetonide. The former is available in topical creams or ointments while the latter is usually injected directly into the affected skin part.

➜ Topical application of corticosteroids is considered when the skin lesion is thin and the symptoms are minor. Covering the corticosteroid with a bandage enhances its potency. When the affected skin is thick and the symptoms are comparatively serious, corticosteroids are directly injected into the skin covered with lesion.

➜ The second effective method of granuloma annulare treatment is cryotherapy. It involves the freezing of the lesion that helps in its excision. Freezing is done by applying liquid nitrogen on the affected skin part with the help of a small cotton-tipped applicator or a small instrument like cryoprobe designed especially for the purpose. The entire procedure takes place in 40 - 60 seconds.

➜ The third method is an oral agent based on retinoids, which are derivatives of vitamin A. Retinoids promote cellular differentiation, inhibit cell growth, and act as immunomodulators. All these properties make them suitable for treating this skin condition.

➜ Accutane is a medicine that contains retinoids and is commonly prescribed by medical practitioners for curing skin lesions caused by granuloma annulare.

➜ The fourth method of cure involves the usage of light. Phototherapy is known to treat skin conditions caused by acne and jaundice. It combines ultraviolet A with a drug called psoralens.

➜ This combination is known as psoralen plus ultraviolet A or PUVA. The function of psoralen is to make the affected skin more receptive to ultraviolet rays. This technique is used only in serious cases of granuloma annulare.

You may also try some home remedies for this skin condition.

➜ Apply mayonnaise on the affected skin and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Thereafter, wash it off with cold water. Do it twice daily for a period of 15 days. This will improve the condition of the skin bump.

➜ Secondly, apply a layer of vinegar on the affected skin. Allow it to stay there for about 10 minutes before rinsing it off with water. Do this once daily for at least a month to get positive results.

➜ Thirdly, bring a few changes in your daily diet. Avoid eating sweets and fatty foods. Follow a healthy diet rich in fibers, vitamins, and minerals. Have 2 - 3 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. All these will detoxify your body and boost the immune system. This, in turn, will cure the skin condition fast and effectively.

Thus, you see that there are many efficacious ways for treating granuloma annulare. As mentioned earlier, this skin condition is generally harmless. Thus, you can give your body a chance to treat it naturally. This will save you from spending money and facing unnecessary fuss of visiting doctors time and again.

However, medical assistance will prevent the worsening of the skin condition if there is a slight possibility of reoccurrence in the future. The choice of medical or natural treatments entirely depends on you. Make a wise decision and take care of yourself.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.