Thursday, October 2, 2008

Biopsy is back - stitches are out

I was diagnosed with Granuloma Annulare

I have to see the dermatologist every 4 to 6 weeks to have the site injected with Kenalog10 which is a steroid. The spot should go away with treatment but it would come back without the steroid injections.

I am relieved that it's nothing serious and requires no surgery. I do hope the doctor is right about it going away. I think it looks terrible.

Thanks for your love and concern while I waited for the results.

I went on WebMD and found the following article about it.

Granuloma Annulare
Granuloma annulare is a chronic skin condition that consists of a circular-shaped rash with reddish bumps (papules).
Most often, the condition affects children and young adults. Granuloma annulare is slightly more common in girls and usually is seen in people who are otherwise healthy.
What Causes Granuloma Annulare?
The cause is unknown, but sometimes granuloma annulare may be associated with diabetes or thyroid disease.
What Are the Symptoms of Granuloma Annulare?
People who have granuloma annulare usually notice a ring of small, firm bumps over the backs of the forearms, hands or feet. More than one ring may be noticed in some cases. The rash may be mildly itchy.
How Is Granuloma Annulare Diagnosed?
The condition is diagnosed by a doctor who may use a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
How Is Granuloma Annulare Treated?
Treatment often is not necessary, except for cosmetic reasons. In some cases, creams or ointments are used to help the bumps disappear. Some doctors may decide to freeze the lesions with liquid nitrogen or to inject steroids directly into the rings of bumps. Ultraviolet light therapy or oral medications can be used in severe cases.

7 comments:

Rose said...

anything concerning our body parts that requires a biopsy, especially at our age, is very very worrisome. So happy that you are ok! xoxo rose

Linda said...

So happy everything came back okay Kathy, and that in time it should go away completely with treatment. Do you only have to have one shot, or a series of them? Just glad no surgery for you....an answer to prayer. :)

Love & Pooh Hugs,
Linda

SolitaryDancer said...

I have that for years. It started on my foot and is on my legs. I won't use the steroids. My derm gives me some cortisone cream and tole me some sun exposure might help. Bottom line it doesn't hurt anything and it will probably come and go on its own. I've had for over 10 years. It's become a part of me. LOL

Deb

Jan said...

Iam so pleased to hear it wasnt anythinmg more sisiter ,and hope it goes away and soooon...love ya Jan xx

Sweetnessk71 said...

Well at least you know what it is and it's not too serious. Good luck with your treatments. I hope they work well for you. Have a good week.

Kris :)

Sandra said...

I`m so glad that you are ok. I hope it goes away very soon.

Love Sandra xxxx

Beth said...

Hi Kathy, thanks for joining my blog! I'm finally getting a chance to get around to everyone, so thank you for your patience!

I'm glad you got good news from your biopsy. It can be very scary waiting to hear the results, and I'm glad your results were good.

Beth