Granulomatous rosacea is a skin condition that usually affects the face, causing yellowish or pinkish-red bumps. Its cause is unknown, but various treatments can help manage the symptoms.

Granulomatous rosacea is a distinctive subtype of rosacea, a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the central facial area.

Read on to learn more about the symptoms of granulomatous rosacea. This article also discusses triggers, how doctors diagnose the condition, treatment options, and more.

Symptoms of granulomatous rosacea may include:

  • firm and painless red, pink, or yellowish-brown granulomas, which are small, localized nodules or inflammatory tissue masses that develop under the skin’s surface
  • persistent facial redness or other color changes, usually involving the cheeks and nose
  • swelling and thickening of the affected skin, particularly in the central facial area
  • flushing or blushing of the skin
  • possible eye symptoms, such as:

These symptoms may vary in severity from person to person.

Learn more about the types and symptoms of rosacea.

View the slideshow below for pictures of granulomatous rosacea.

The exact cause of granulomatous rosacea is unclear. However, Demodex folliculorum may play a role in its development. Demodex folliculorum is a type of mite that can live in skin pores and trigger an immune response.

Other possible triggers for granulomatous rosacea include:

  • sun exposure
  • temperature changes
  • alcohol consumption

More research is necessary to help medical professionals understand what can cause or trigger granulomatous rosacea.

If a person develops symptoms of granulomatous rosacea, they should make an appointment with a doctor.

Early diagnosis and treatment may help manage the skin condition and minimize the potential complications.

To reach an accurate diagnosis, a doctor may begin by asking questions about a person’s symptoms and taking a full medical history.

They will also likely order a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment strategies for granulomatous rosacea typically involve a combination of oral or topical medications to manage the symptoms and reduce the chances of potential complications.

Possible treatments include:

  • Oral antibiotics: Doxycycline is a type of antibiotic that can serve a dual purpose in treating granulomatous rosacea. It helps alleviate inflammation and controls the underlying bacterial factors that may contribute to the condition’s development or lead to secondary infections.
  • Corticosteroids: Topical or oral corticosteroids may reduce inflammation and swelling associated with granulomatous rosacea.

In some cases, doctors may consider laser therapy to address persistent nodules. They may also explore more advanced treatment options, including chromophore gel‐assisted phototherapy. This treatment involves using specialized lasers and chromophore gel (Kleresca) to target and reduce vascular irregularities and skin lesions.

Doctors tailor the treatment method to the individual, considering the severity of symptoms, the response to treatment, and any potential side effects.

Regular follow-up appointments with a dermatologist are crucial to monitor treatment progress, make necessary adjustments, and optimize the management of the condition.

Because the exact cause of granulomatous rosacea is unclear, it may not be possible to completely prevent the condition.

However, people with a predisposition to rosacea or a family history of the condition may benefit from some lifestyle strategies, such as avoiding known rosacea triggers. Possible triggers include:

  • sun exposure
  • extreme temperatures
  • spicy foods
  • alcohol
  • hot beverages
  • certain ingredients in cosmetics

Granulomatous rosacea is a rare condition, accounting for approximately 1% to 2% of rosacea cases.

Granulomatous rosacea most commonly affects middle‐aged females.

Granulomatous rosacea is a chronic condition, and the outlook may vary from person to person. The long-term outlook usually depends on how severe a person’s symptoms are and how well they respond to treatment.

While granulomatous rosacea primarily manifests as a skin disorder, its impact may extend beyond physical symptoms. One of its primary complications is the potential for mental health challenges. People may experience:

People may sometimes withdraw from social interactions and experience social isolation.

Given the potential for these effects on mental health and overall well-being, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are critical in managing granulomatous rosacea.

Granulomatous rosacea is a unique subtype of rosacea. It causes granulomas under the skin’s surface, leading to skin nodules and persistent facial redness or other color changes.

Anyone with symptoms of granulomatous rosacea should contact a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. While the exact cause of the condition remains unclear, treatment options are available to manage the symptoms and improve a person’s quality of life.