Patient perspectives on the lived experience of granuloma annulare

Abstract

Granuloma annulare is a relatively common inflammatory skin disease, yet patient-centered impacts of GA have not been thoroughly investigated, including the potential psychosocial and symptomatic burden, patients’ motivation for treatment, and patients’ perception of usefulness of commonly used medications. We conducted a survey of greater than 900 patients with GA and found an unexpectedly significant impact of GA on the quality of life, a generally poor reported response to commonly used therapies, and that symptoms such as itch and discomfort are not uncommon and may be the primary motivator for seeking treatment. More effective therapies and an understanding of their effect on quality of life is needed.