Hypertrophic scar
Hypertrophic Scar
A Hypertrophic Scar (pronunciation: hi-per-TROH-fik skar) is a type of scar that is characterized by an overgrowth of tissue at the site of a healed skin injury.
Etymology
The term "Hypertrophic Scar" is derived from the Greek words "hyper" meaning over or excessive, and "trophe" meaning nourishment. This refers to the excessive growth of tissue that characterizes these types of scars.
Definition
A Hypertrophic Scar is a thick, raised, often red scar that develops where skin has healed after an injury. They can continue to thicken for up to six months. After this time, they often slowly improve over a period of years. They can occur after any type of skin injury, but are most common after burns. They are not contagious, but they may be uncomfortable or itchy, and may cause cosmetic concerns.
Related Terms
- Keloid: A type of raised scar that is larger than the original wound. Unlike hypertrophic scars, keloids can grow indefinitely.
- Atrophic Scar: A type of scar in which the skin appears sunken or depressed. This is often the result of damage to the collagen, fat, or other tissues below the skin.
- Contracture Scar: A type of scar that causes tightening of the skin that can impair the ability to move; often occurs after a significant second or third degree burn.
- Scar Revision: A group of cosmetic procedures aimed at reducing the appearance of scars.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hypertrophic scar
- Wikipedia's article - Hypertrophic scar
This WikiMD article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski