Keloid

A keloid is an overgrowth of fibrous scar tissue at the site of a traumatic skin injury. A keloid usually does not resolve on its own, but may only be slightly reduced by pressure applied to the area or by injections of effective corticosteroids.

Keloid formations are especially common in the sternum or ear lobe, so it is best to try to avoid surgical removal of benign formations in these areas of the body.

A hypertrophic scar resembles a keloid in appearance, but can resolve within a few months after its occurrence.

Keloid: causes, symptoms and treatments

A keloid is an overgrowth of fibrous scar tissue at the site of a traumatic skin injury. This condition is quite common and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or race. In this article we will look at the causes, symptoms and treatment methods of keloid.

Causes of keloid

Keloid formation occurs due to excessive growth of collagen fibers in scar tissue. Typically, a keloid does not resolve on its own and can only be slightly reduced by applying pressure to the area or by injections of effective corticosteroids. A hypertrophic scar resembles a keloid in appearance, but can resolve within a few months after its occurrence.

Keloid symptoms

The main symptom of a keloid is excessive growth of scar tissue at the site of traumatic skin damage. Keloid can come in a variety of sizes and shapes, from small patches to large patches that can cover most of the body. Keloid formations especially often occur in the sternum or on the lobe of the ear.

Treatment methods for keloid

Treating a keloid can be a complex and lengthy process. However, if you start treatment on time, you can avoid additional complications and speed up the recovery process. Below are the main treatment methods for keloid:

1. Corticosteroid injections: This method is the most effective in treating keloids. Corticosteroid injections help reduce inflammation and stop scar tissue from growing.

2. Laser therapy: This method of treating keloids can reduce the size of scar tissue and improve its appearance.

3. Surgical removal: Surgical removal of the keloid can be effective in treating small keloids. However, when removing large keloids, there is a risk of scar tissue reoccurring.

4. Radiation therapy: This method of treating keloids is used in extreme cases when other methods have not worked. Radiation therapy helps shrink the keloid and prevent it from recurring.

In conclusion, a keloid is an excessive growth of scar tissue at the site of a traumatic skin injury, which can cause discomfort and negatively affect the aesthetic appearance of the skin. Treating a keloid can be a complex and lengthy process, and depending on the size and location of the keloid, a variety of treatments may be used, such as corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, surgical removal, and radiation therapy. However, as with any other disease, it is best to begin treatment for keloid in the early stages to avoid additional complications and speed up the healing process.

Like many diseases, keloids are growths of soft tissue, caused by the presence of numerous fibrocytes within the affected area. Keloids often form on the skin 6-8 weeks after injury. Another name for them is benign tumors. They are most often found on the following parts of the body: above the collarbone on the back; in the groin; on the buttocks; over the heart; in the armpits; near large joints.

Keloids occur due to trauma - a strong blow, burn, wound, skin graft, etc. - in place of which fibrosis occurs. Due to injury to nearby muscles, the skin becomes thinner. A microcrack turns the resulting bruise into a cut under the skin. This area begins to recover faster - accumulating hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin. This is how a keloid begins. The peculiarity is