Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Chronic granulomatous lesions of the skin represent a diagnostic challenge due to their varied etiologies and overlapping histopathological features. These lesions can result from infectious, immunogenic, or foreign body reactions, necessitating careful clinical and histopathological evaluation. This study aims to analyze the spectrum of chronic granulomatous skin lesions encountered over a 10‐year period at a tertiary referral center in South India. This retrospective study was conducted at the Department of Pathology and Dermatology. A total of 938 skin biopsies from 2005 to 2015 were reviewed, out of which 167 cases (17.8%) were identified as chronic granulomatous inflammation. The biopsies were categorized into infectious and non‐infectious granulomas based on histopathological examination and the use of special stains such as Ziehl‐Neelsen, Periodic Acid‐Schiff (PAS) and Fite‐Faraco. Clinical data including patient demographics and anatomical distribution were analyzed. The study found that 75% of the granulomatous lesions were infectious in origin, with tuberculosis being the most common etiology (51.3%), followed by leprosy (21.8%) and sarcoidosis (11%). The lesions predominantly affected males (59.9%) and were most common in the 21‐30 year age group. The face was the most frequently involved anatomical site (29.9%), followed by the upper and lower extremities. Infectious granulomatous lesions, particularly tuberculosis and leprosy, constitute the majority of cases in this South Indian population, reflecting the endemic nature of these diseases. The study highlights the importance of considering these infections in the differential diagnosis of granulomatous skin lesions and underscores the role of histopathology, supported by special stains, in accurate diagnosis. Future studies should focus on regional variations in granulomatous diseases and the long‐term outcomes of these lesions.
How to cite this article:
N. Thamarai Selvi, N. Sundhar Rajan, N. Kavya and K. Sunitha. Spectrum of Chronic Granulomatous Lesions of Skin: A 10‐Year Study from a Tertiary Referral Centre of South India.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2024.9.533.537
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2024.9.533.537