Keloids: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
A keloid is an abnormal scar that forms after an injury. They are raised, hard, sometimes itchy, and sometimes painful. They can affect any part of the body, but they are more common on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and cheeks. Though keloids do not cause health problems, they can adversely affect your self-esteem and appearance.
What causes keloids?
An overgrowth of scar tissue causes keloids. The exact reason why some people develop keloids and others don't is not fully understood, but it may be due to genetics, skin type, and wound healing. Here are some factors that increase your risk of developing keloids:
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Having dark or black skin. Keloids are more common in people of African, Asian, or Latin American descent.
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Having a family history of keloids. If one or both of your parents have keloids, you are more likely to get them too.
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Being young. Keloids are more likely to occur in people under 30 years old.
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Having a skin injury that is deep, large, or infected. Some of the common types of skin injuries that can lead to keloids are acne scars, burns, chickenpox scars, ear piercings, surgical cuts, vaccinations, and tattoos.
What are the symptoms of keloids?
Keloids usually develop within months or years after the skin injury. They may grow larger than the original wound and extend beyond its borders. The symptoms of keloids may include:
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A firm, rubbery, or fibrous scar that is pink, red, or dark in color.
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A lumpy or ridged area of skin that is usually raised above the surrounding skin.
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An itchy, tender, or irritated patch of skin.
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A scar that continues to grow over time.
How are keloids diagnosed?
Keloids are usually diagnosed by their appearance and location on the skin. A skin biopsy may be performed by your doctor to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. You will also be asked about your medical history, family history, and any previous skin injuries. Under a microscope, scar tissue is examined to determine if it is cancerous.
How are keloids treated?
The appearance and symptoms of keloids can be improved with several treatment options, but there is no cure for keloids. Keloids can be treated in a variety of ways depending on the size, location, and severity of the keloid, as well as your budget and personal preference.
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Medications. Your doctor may prescribe or inject steroids or other drugs into the keloid to reduce its size and inflammation. These medications may have side effects such as skin thinning, discoloration, or infection.
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Cryotherapy. This involves applying extreme cold to the keloid to freeze and destroy some of the scar tissue. This may lighten the color and soften the texture of the keloid. However, it may also cause blisters, pain, or changes in pigmentation.
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Surgical excision. This involves cutting out the keloid with a scalpel or a laser. This may remove the entire scar or reduce its size. However, there is a high risk of recurrence or worsening of the keloid after surgery.
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Radiation therapy. This involves using high-energy rays to damage and shrink the keloid cells. This may be done before or after surgery to prevent recurrence or reduce scarring. However, it may also cause skin damage, cancer risk, or delayed wound healing.
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Therapy. This involves applying pressure pads or silicone gel sheets to the keloid to flatten and soften it. This may also reduce itching and discomfort. This treatment requires consistent and long-term use for best results.
How can keloids be prevented?
You may also want to treat any skin problems as soon as possible to prevent infection and scarring if you are prone to developing keloids. Some of the preventive measures that you can take are:
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Keep your wounds clean and moist. Gently wash them with mild soap and water and apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or other ointment to keep them moist.
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Protect your wounds from sunlight. Exposure to ultraviolet rays can darken your scars and make them more noticeable. Cover your wounds with clothing or sunscreen when going outdoors.
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Avoid piercing or tattooing your skin. These procedures can cause injury and infection that can lead to keloid formation.
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Consult your doctor before getting any cosmetic procedures done on your skin. Some procedures such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, or laser resurfacing can damage your skin and trigger keloid formation.
Summary
An abnormal scar forms when the skin heals from an injury and causes an overgrowth of scar tissue. Keloids are not harmful to your health, but they can affect your appearance and self-esteem. Keloids are caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue that is influenced by genetics, skin type, and wound healing. Treatment options for keloids include medications, cryotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, or therapy. However, these treatments aren't always effective and may come with side effects or complications. You can prevent keloids by avoiding unnecessary trauma or surgery to your skin and taking good care of your wounds.
