Laser Removal and Treatment of Granuloma Annulare

Exton, Pennsylvania, May 6, 2015 (Newswire.com) - ​ At Couture in the Philadelphia area, Dr. Anshul Gambhir is trained in the laser modality used to treat Granuloma Annulare. Granuloma Annulare is a chronic skin condition that most often affects children and young adults, and it is more common in females. It typically presents as a cluster of raised, reddish or skin-colored lesions that form a ringed pattern. Usually these bumps occur in a localized pattern on the hands and feet. Rarely, up to 15% of people who have granuloma annulare have lesions over large portions of their body, such as the trunk, arms and legs. This variety of granuloma annulare tends to be itchy and most often affects adults.

The exact cause of granuloma annulare is not currently known. It is sometimes thought to be triggered by minor skin injuries or even certain types of medication. It can also be exacerbated by animal or insect bites, infections such as hepatitis, tuberculin skin tests, vaccinations, and sun exposure.

This skin condition is typically asymptomatic, and produces bumps that aren't itchy or painful. Often no treatment is necessary. The lesions usually disappear on their own within two years. However, they can be physically and aesthetically bothersome. Because of this, there are several treatment options to rid the body of these unsightly bumps.

One highly effective option is to treat the area with a laser. Laser treatments are powerful and can ultimately remove the physical presence of granuloma annulare. Amazingly, there are no residual side effects or skin changes following laser treatment. 

Among all of the possible treatment options for granuloma annulare, laser therapy is arguably the safest. Long term use of topical steroids can cause skin to atrophy, and they can create an inconvenient mess when applied. Corticosteroid injections and freezing the lesions can often be painful. Laser therapy is an efficient option to truly treat the lesions caused by granuloma annulare.