Keloids

Keloids are raised scars that develop when the body produces excess collagen in response to an injury. They often appear as raised, thickened areas of skin that are darker or lighter than the surrounding skin. Keloids can be unsightly and uncomfortable, and can also cause itching or pain.

Types of Keloids: Keloids can occur anywhere on the body, but are most common on the chest, back, shoulders, and earlobes. There are several types of keloids:

1. Papular Keloids.
2. Nodular Keloids.
3. Tumoral Keloids.
4. Pedunculated Keloids.
5. Hyper-inflammatory Keloids.
6. Superficially Spreading Keloids.
7. Iatrogenic Keloids.

Causes of Keloids: Keloids can occur after any type of skin injury, including surgery, burns, acne, and piercings. Some people are more prone to keloids than others, and the condition tends to run in families. Keloids are more common in people with darker skin tones, and can also occur as a result of hormonal changes during pregnancy or adolescence.

Pathophysiology of Keloids: Keloids develop when the body produces too much collagen in response to an injury. Collagen is a protein that forms the structure of skin and other connective tissues in the body. When the body produces too much collagen, it can cause the skin to thicken and form raised, thickened areas.

Treatment options for Keloids: There are several treatment options for keloids, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Some common treatment options include:

1. Corticosteroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce the size and thickness of keloids by reducing inflammation in the affected area.
2. Surgery: Surgery can be used to remove keloids, but there is a risk that the keloid will return after surgery.
3. Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen, which can help reduce its size and thickness.
4. Laser Therapy: Laser therapy can be used to reduce the size and thickness of keloids by targeting the blood vessels that supply them with blood.
5. Silicone Sheets: Silicone sheets can be applied to the surface of keloids to help flatten and reduce their size over time.
6. Pressure Therapy: Pressure therapy involves applying pressure to the keloid with a special dressing or bandage, which can help reduce its size and thickness.

In conclusion, keloids are raised scars that can be unsightly and uncomfortable. They can occur after any type of skin injury, and tend to be more common in people with darker skin tones. Treatment options for keloids include corticosteroid injections, surgery, cryotherapy, laser therapy, silicone sheets, and pressure therapy.