Keloid

Keloids are a type of hypertrophic scar that develop as an abnormal response to skin healing following injury or inflammation. Characterized by their hard, thick, and raised appearance, keloids result from an overproduction of collagen in the skin during the healing process.

Keloid tumor

Definition and Description

A keloid is a specific type of scar that, unlike typical scars, extends beyond the boundaries of the original wound. They tend to be firm, raised, and may sometimes cause discomfort or itchiness. Their color can vary from pink to red or even dark brown, depending on individual skin tone and the age of the scar.

Pathophysiology

The exact cause of keloid formation is not completely understood, but it is believed to be associated with an overactive healing response. When the skin is injured, the body produces collagen to repair the wound. In individuals prone to keloid formation, an excessive amount of collagen is produced, leading to a thick, raised scar.

Risk Factors

Certain individuals and populations are more prone to developing keloids. These include those with darker skin tones, individuals with a family history of keloids, and those in their teenage years and early adulthood. Certain locations on the body, such as the chest, back, shoulders, and earlobes, are also more susceptible.

Treatment

Treatment of keloids can be challenging, as they often recur after removal. Current treatments include corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, cryotherapy, and surgical removal. In some cases, radiation therapy may be used. However, it's important to note that while these treatments can improve the appearance of keloids, they do not completely eliminate the possibility of recurrence.

Prevention

Preventing keloid formation involves avoiding unnecessary skin trauma when possible, particularly in individuals who are at a higher risk. For necessary wounds, such as surgical incisions, silicone sheets or gels can be used to reduce the likelihood of keloid formation.

See Also

• Scar
• Collagen
• Corticosteroid
• Cryotherapy

References

• "Keloid". MedlinePlus. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
• "Keloid". American Academy of Dermatology. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
• "Treatment of Keloids". American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Retrieved 2023-05-18.

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