Keloid
Keloids are raised, thickened, and often painful scar tissues that can develop at the site of a wound, injury, surgery, or skin condition. They are a type of abnormal scar formation, typically characterized by their tendency to grow beyond the boundaries of the original injury or incision. Keloids can vary in size, shape, and color and are more common in individuals with darker skin tones.
Keloids are usually raised and have a shiny, smooth surface. They can range from pink or red to dark brown in color. Keloids may be itchy, tender, or painful.Keloids can be treated or managed, but it can be challenging to completely eliminate them.
symptoms of keloids
Raised, Thickened Skin: The primary characteristic of a keloid is that it appears as a raised lump or thickened area of skin. Keloids can vary in size and shape, and they often extend beyond the borders of the original injury or incision.
Red, Pink, or Darkened Color: Keloids may have a different color than the surrounding skin. They can appear red, pink, brown, or even darker than the individual’s natural skin tone.
Itching or Burning Sensation: Some people with keloids may experience itching or a burning sensation in the affected area. This can lead to discomfort and irritation.
Pain: Keloids can sometimes be tender or painful, particularly when they are newly formed or if they become inflamed.
Slow Growth: Keloids tend to grow gradually over time. They may continue to enlarge for several months or even years after the initial injury.
Excessive Size: In some cases, keloids can become quite large and disfiguring, causing cosmetic concerns and potentially interfering with movement in certain areas of the body.
Recurrence: After surgical removal or other treatments, keloids may recur in the same location.
treatments for keloids
Steroid Injections (Corticosteroids): Steroid injections, such as triamcinolone acetonide, are often the first-line treatment for keloids. They can help reduce inflammation and flatten the keloid. Multiple injections may be required over several months to achieve the desired results.
Silicone Gel Sheets or Silicone Creams: These over-the-counter products can help soften and flatten keloids when applied consistently over an extended period. They are often used in combination with other treatments.
Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen. This can help flatten the keloid, but it may require several treatments.
Pressure Dressings or Silicone Gel Pads: Pressure dressings and silicone gel pads can help reduce the size and thickness of keloids when applied to the affected area. They are typically used continuously for several months.
Laser Therapy: Laser treatment, including pulsed-dye lasers or CO2 lasers, can help reduce redness and flatten keloids. Multiple sessions may be necessary.
Surgical Removal (Excision): Surgical excision involves removing the entire keloid. However, this approach has a risk of keloid recurrence and should be combined with other treatments like steroid injections or radiation therapy.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be used after surgical removal to reduce the risk of keloid recurrence. It is typically