Have you ever noticed a scar growing long after a wound has healed? Unlike normal scars that fade over time, keloids can expand, becoming raised, itchy, and sometimes even painful. This overgrowth of scar tissue is more than just a cosmetic concern. Depending on its location, it can cause discomfort and affect mobility.
We spoke to Dr Kriti Lohia, Founder and CEO, Consultant Dermatologist, Aesthetics Redefined by Cocoona, Gurugram, who explained keloids, their symptoms, and treatment measures.
What Are Keloids?
"Keloids are scar tissue that forms due to a hyperactive wound-healing response, triggered spontaneously or after an injury, such as a piercing, minor cut, surgical incisions or even acne. It involves excessive collagen tissue formation and results in a raised, red to brown shiny scar," explained Dr Lohia.
Any scar formation reflects the body's basic wound-healing response. Once the wound is healed, scar tissue formation in regular scars stops. However, in the case of keloids, this process, once triggered, cannot regulate itself, leading to excessive tissue production.
Who Is More Likely to Get Keloids?
"Genetics play a significant role in keloid formation. People with darker skin tones, particularly those of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent, are more prone to developing keloids. If a close family member has experienced keloids, there is a higher likelihood of developing them," added Dr Lohia. Also, certain body areas, such as the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and upper back, are more susceptible to keloid formation due to the skin’s tension in these regions.
Also Read: Dealing With Eczema Scars? Expert Lists Its Causes, Treatment, And Prevention Measures
Symptoms of Keloids
According to StatPearls, the occurrence of this condition in populations with darker pigmentation varies between 4.5-16%. It is particularly more prevalent during pregnancy and puberty. A keloid may start as a small bump over a healing wound and gradually expand. They are often red, itchy, painful, disfiguring, and in areas that can restrict free movement.
Treatment and Removal Options
Laser Therapy
Laser treatment helps break down excess collagen, improving the keloid’s appearance and reducing symptoms. This method is often used alongside other treatments for better results.
Triple Combination Injections
This treatment method is a combination of steroids, chemotherapy agents, and other medications that can be injected directly into the keloid to shrink it. This is one of the most effective treatments, especially when started early. These injections help flatten the scar and reduce itching or pain.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is another practice, which involves freezing the keloid using liquid nitrogen to gradually reduce its size. It is suitable for smaller keloids and is often combined with other treatments.
Silicone Sheets and Pressure Therapy
Silicone gel sheets and pressure dressings can help flatten and soften keloids. These methods are non-invasive and work best on newer scars.
Can Keloids Be Completely Cured?
The word cure cannot be used for keloids, especially in a person with a genetic predisposition. However, managing the symptoms and reducing the bulk of the painful and disfiguring scar tissue is possible. In many cases, the treatment results are quite magical.
Importance of Early Treatment
Dr Lohia concluded, "For any medical condition, the dictum is pretty straightforward. The sooner the better. The more bulky the keloid becomes, the longer and more challenging the case gets. At the first symptoms of a developing keloid, especially when it is painful, red and itchy, it is pertinent to seek medical help."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]