Disseminated (generalized) granuloma annulare is a more extensive form of the condition defined by the presence of 10 or more lesions distributed across the skin. Approximately 15% of patients with granuloma annulare will develop this widespread pattern, which poses distinct management challenges compared with the localized form.
This protocol addresses patients with confirmed disseminated or generalized granuloma annulare — similar in appearance to the localized variant but distinguished by widespread distribution of 10 or more separate skin lesions. The extent of involvement makes localized approaches insufficient.
Disseminated or generalized granuloma annulare is similar to the localized variant but is more widespread, having 10 or more lesions.
Approximately 15 percent of all patients with granuloma annulare will have more than 10 lesions (i.e., disseminated granuloma annulare).
Disseminated granuloma annulare may be treated with one of several systemic therapies such as dapsone, retinoids, niacinamide, antimalarials, psoralen plus ultraviolet A therapy, fumaric acid esters, tacrolimus, and pimecrolimus.
Systemic therapy is required for disseminated granuloma annulare, and many different treatments have been proposed.
Treatment for disseminated granuloma annulare should be undertaken in consultation with a dermatologist; options include dapsone, retinoids, antimalarial drugs, tacrolimus (Protopic), and pimecrolimus (Elidel).
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