Keloid formation can be a distressing skin condition, but understanding it in simple terms can help you navigate the journey of managing it effectively. In this article, we’ll break down what keloids are, their types, the common causes, symptoms to watch out for, diagnostic tests used to identify them, various treatment options available, and medications that may be prescribed.
A keloid is a type of raised, thickened scar that forms at the site of a wound, injury, or surgical incision. Unlike regular scars that heal over time and become less noticeable, keloids grow beyond the original injury area and can be itchy, painful, and cosmetically bothersome.
Types of Keloids
Keloids can vary in appearance and texture, but they typically fall into two main categories:
- Hypertrophic Keloids: These are raised, red or pink, and often grow within the boundaries of the original wound.
- Atrophic Keloids: These are raised, pale, and extend beyond the initial injury site.
Common Causes of Keloids
- Wound or Surgical Incisions: Any surgery or injury that breaks the skin’s surface can potentially lead to keloid formation.
- Burns: Keloids can develop as a result of burns, including those caused by heat, chemicals, or radiation.
- Acne: Severe acne can leave behind scars that may become keloids.
- Piercings and Tattoos: Some individuals may develop keloids after getting piercings or tattoos.
- Genetics: A family history of keloids can increase your risk of developing them.
- Infections: Infections at the site of an injury can contribute to keloid formation.
- Foreign Bodies: Objects, such as splinters or glass, left in the skin can trigger keloid growth.
- Inflammatory Skin Conditions: Conditions like psoriasis or lupus can lead to keloids.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or puberty may influence keloid development.
- Allergies: An allergic reaction to substances like latex or nickel can result in keloids.
- Dermabrasion or Laser Resurfacing: Some cosmetic procedures can cause keloid formation.
- Steroid Abuse: The misuse of steroids, either topical or systemic, can increase the risk.
- Keloid Removal Surgery: Ironically, keloid removal surgery can sometimes lead to the formation of new keloids.
- Pressure on Skin: Constant pressure on the skin, such as from tight clothing or belts, can be a contributing factor.
- Trauma: Physical injuries like car accidents or falls can trigger keloids.
- Vaccination Sites: Rarely, keloids may form at the site of vaccinations.
- Fungal Infections: In rare cases, fungal infections like sporotrichosis can lead to keloids.
- Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes may increase the risk of keloid development.
- Chemotherapy: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy may cause keloid-like scars.
- African, Asian, and Hispanic Ethnicities: These populations are more prone to keloid formation.
Common Symptoms of Keloids
- Raised Texture: Keloids are noticeably raised and extend beyond the original injury or scar.
- Color Changes: They may be red, pink, brown, or pale, depending on your skin type.
- Itching: Keloids can be itchy and uncomfortable.
- Pain or Discomfort: Some people experience pain or tenderness at the keloid site.
- Cosmetic Concerns: Keloids can be cosmetically bothersome, especially when they appear on visible areas like the face or neck.
- Restricted Movement: In some cases, large keloids can limit joint movement.
- Growth Over Time: Keloids can continue to grow for weeks, months, or even years after the initial injury.
- Texture Differences: The texture of keloids may differ from surrounding skin, feeling thick and rubbery.
- Bleeding or Ulceration: Rarely, keloids can develop sores or bleed.
- Psychological Impact: Keloids can cause emotional distress due to their appearance.
Diagnosing Keloids
Diagnosing keloids typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. However, additional tests and evaluations may be recommended to rule out other conditions or assess the severity of the keloid. These may include:
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample may be taken for laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis.
- Ultrasound: Imaging may be used to assess the extent of keloid growth and rule out other issues.
- Dermoscopy: A handheld device with a magnifying lens can help examine the keloid’s characteristics.
- Skin Testing: Allergy testing may be performed if an allergic reaction is suspected.
Treatment Options for Keloids
Treating keloids can be challenging, but there are several options available, depending on the size, location, and severity of the keloid:
- Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and flatten keloids.
- Silicone Gel Sheets: These sheets can be applied to the keloid site to soften and flatten the scar.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen can shrink it.
- Laser Therapy: Laser treatment can help reduce redness and flatten the keloid.
- Surgical Removal: Surgical excision may be considered for large or stubborn keloids, often followed by other treatments to prevent recurrence.
- Radiation Therapy: In some cases, radiation may be used to prevent keloid recurrence after surgical removal.
- Pressure Dressings: Applying pressure to the keloid with special dressings can help flatten it.
- Interferon Therapy: Interferon injections may be used for severe cases.
- Corticosteroid Tape: Adhesive tape impregnated with corticosteroids can be applied to the keloid.
- Onion Extract Gel: Topical gels containing onion extract can help reduce keloid size.
- Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injecting Botox into the keloid may help prevent growth.
- Fluorouracil (5-FU) Cream: This topical cream can inhibit keloid growth.
- Dermal Fillers: Injecting fillers can temporarily smooth out the appearance of keloids.
- Medical Tattoos: Tattooing the keloid to match your skin tone can make it less noticeable.
- Natural Remedies: Some people try natural remedies like aloe vera or tea tree oil, though evidence of their effectiveness is limited.
- Intralesional Verapamil: Injections of verapamil may help reduce keloid size.
- Laser-assisted Drug Delivery: Laser treatment can be used to enhance the absorption of medications into the keloid.
- Hydration and Sun Protection: Keeping the keloid hydrated and protecting it from the sun can aid in healing.
Medications for Keloid Treatment:
- Corticosteroid Creams: Topical corticosteroid creams can help reduce inflammation and itching.
- Corticosteroid Injections: Steroid injections directly into the keloid can reduce its size and symptoms.
- 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU): This chemotherapy drug can be used in injection form to inhibit keloid growth.
- Interferon: Interferon injections may be used for keloids that don’t respond well to other treatments.
- Bleomycin: This medication can be injected into the keloid to reduce its size.
Conclusion:
Keloid formation can be distressing, but there are various treatment options available to manage and improve the appearance of keloids. If you suspect you have a keloid or are concerned about a scar, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Remember, early intervention often yields better results in managing keloids and minimizing their impact on your life.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
Hypertrophic Scarring
