Monthly rifampicin, ofloxacin, and minocycline therapy for generalized and localized granuloma annulare.

BACKGROUND: The localized form of granuloma annulare is usually self-limiting, resolving within 2 years. Generalized granuloma annulare, on the other hand, runs a protracted course, with spontaneous resolution being rare. It is also characterized by a later age of onset, an increased incidence of diabetes mellitus, poor response to therapy, and an increased prevalence of HLA Bw35.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of monthly pulsed rifampicin, ofloxacin, and minocycline (ROM) therapy in the management of granuloma annulare.

METHODS: Six biopsy proven patients of granuloma annulare were included in the study, five of the generalized variety, and one localized. Three of these patients were resistant to standard modalities of treatment. All six patients were treated with pulses of once monthly ROM till complete resolution of all lesions. Results were analyzed in terms of complete resolution of lesions and side effects. Presence of comorbid conditions was noted.

RESULT: All six patients were successfully treated with 4-8 pulses of monthly ROM. None of the patients reported any adverse effects.

LIMITATIONS: Small sample size and the lack of a control group are limitations.

CONCLUSION: Treatment with pulses of once monthly ROM caused complete resolution of lesions in both localized and generalized granuloma annulare, even in cases recalcitrant to conventional therapy. There were no side effects in any of the patients. Larger trials are needed to substantiate the efficacy of monthly ROM in granuloma annulare.