Extrafacial Granuloma Faciale: A Case Report and Brief Review

Abstract

Granuloma faciale (GF) is a rare, inflammatory, cutaneous disorder of unknown aetiology. It presents clinically as one or several well-circumscribed violaceous papules, plaques, and nodules almost exclusively confined to the facial region. Rarely, extrafacial lesions can occur, most often on sun-exposed sites. We report a case of extrafacial GF in a 63-year-old male with indolent lymphoma, who presented with plaques involving the right preauricular region and left posterior axilla. The clinical and histopathological findings were consistent with GF. Our case highlights the importance of performing skin biopsies in patients with persistent erythematous plaques and nodules, particularly to exclude important malignant and granulomatous differential diagnoses.

Extrafacial granuloma faciale presenting as an annular plaque of the scalp

“…The isolated scalp involvement is very unusual, and to our knowledge there are only four cases reported in the literature. [1][2][3][4][5] Figure 1 Clinical aspect of an annular plaque of the occipital area, with raised and well-demarcated borders and a central resolution Moreover, GF usually appears as an enlarging nodule or plaque instead of an annular lesion with centrifugal growth and central clearing, as in our patient.…”

“…This condition is benign and involves mainly adult people, in particular middle-age males (mean age at presentation is around 52 years), but occasionally it can occur in children. 1 The etiology is still unknown, and there are only hypotheses about a relation to sun exposure because of its localization on sun-exposed areas. Allergy, trauma, and radiation therapy are also considered potential triggering factors.…”

“…Allergy, trauma, and radiation therapy are also considered potential triggering factors. 1 The pathogenesis is debated, and some authors consider GF a vasculitis. 1,2 The diagnosis of GF is based on both clinical and histological findings.…”

“…1 The pathogenesis is debated, and some authors consider GF a vasculitis. 1,2 The diagnosis of GF is based on both clinical and histological findings.…”

“…The nematode reaches sexual maturity in dogs and cats in 4 weeks. 1 The adult hookworm is present in their intestine. 2 The ova are released into the sand via the feces.…”