KELOIDS

Keloids are fibrous tumours caused by overgrowth of connective tissue.
They usually occur in a scar, weeks to months after the skin is
traumatised. The keloid spreads beyond the boundary of the original
injury to form a hard, irregular, shiny, sometimes painful or itchy ridge or
plaque. In primary keloids there is no apparent preceding trauma. Once
formed keloids remain stationary for years after which, some become
partially flattened. They are especially common in Africans.
Management of keloids
- Treatment is difficult, especially in older lesions. Surgical excision will lead to
recurrence and more severe deformity!
- Strong topical corticosteroids under occlusion are sometimes effective as are
intralesional corticosteroids, with or without cryotherapy. Radiotherapy is an option
in some cases. Pressure garments may be used to prevent and treat keloids
especially after extensive trauma e.g. burns.