Granuloma Annulare Treatment

Granuloma annulare is a skin disorder that is characterized by ring shape, localized nodular inflammation occurring on the middle layer of the skin called dermis. Its exact cause is not yet known. Granuloma annulare usually disappears by itself over a period of time and the time length does not extend two years. According to observations, it mostly affects girls 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 its removal, only because of cosmetic reasons. Following is a brief description on granuloma annulare treatments, of both medical and natural types.

Granuloma Annulare Medical Treatment

Corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory properties, and thus are used in curing 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. Prescription of corticosteroids is usually considered first of all the treatment methods for granuloma annulare as inflammation has to be reduced to improve the condition and appearance of the skin lesion. Some examples of corticosteroids, that are commonly used for treating granuloma annulare are, Clobetasol propionate and Triamcinolone acetonide. The former is available in toipcal creams or ointments while the latter is usually injected directly into the affected skin.

Topical application of corticosteroid 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 greater, corticosteroids are 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 of retinoids make them suitable to be used for treating granuloma annulare. Accutane is a medicine that contains retinoids and is commonly prescribed by medical practitioner for curing skin lesions caused by granuloma annulare.

The fourth method of granuloma annulare cure involves the usage of light. Phototherapy has been observed 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.

Granuloma Annulare Natural Treatments

You may try some home remedies for granuloma annulare. Apply mayonnaise on the affected skin and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Wash it off with cold water after the completion of the given time period. Do it twice daily for a period of fifteen days. This will improve the condition of the skin bump caused by granuloma annulare. Secondly, apply a layer of vinegar on the skin affected with granuloma annulare. 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 die, rich in fibers, vitamins and minerals. Have 2-3 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. All these will detoxify your body and boost your immune system. This, in turn, will assist your body to cure granuloma annulare fast and effectively.

Thus, you see that there are many efficacious ways for granuloma annulare treatment. As is mentioned earlier, granuloma annulare 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 you from worsening of your skin condition, if the possibility is there in future. The choice of medical or natural treatments entirely depends on you. Make a wise decision and take care of yourself.