Keloid and hypertrophic scars: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Kelloid and hypertrophic scars appear as a result of excessive tissue formation at the site of skin damage.
The causes of keloid and hypertrophic scars are unknown. Scars usually appear at the site of skin damage - after surgery, cryo-or electrodestruction, in the place of wounds, abrasions, acne vulgaris. They can also arise spontaneously, usually in the antero-thoracic region.
Symptoms of keloid and hypertrophic scars. Elements of the rash can be in the form of papules, knots, large tumor-like tuberous formations. The color of the elements is red, pink or normal skin and depends on the lifetime of the process. The shape of the elements is linear, while in hypertrophic scars it is dome-shaped. When palpating a smooth surface and a dense or firm consistency of the elements are determined. Typically, the skin-pathological process is located on the skin of the lobes of the ears, the shoulder, chest and upper back.
Differential diagnosis. Kelloids should be distinguished from dermatofibroma, bulging dermatofibrosarcoma, granuloma of foreign body.
Histopathology. A young dense connective tissue consisting of bundles of collagen fibers and fibroblasts is defined.
Treatment of keloid and hypertrophic scars. Apply cryotherapy, excision. Injection of corticosteroids into the lesion focus.
What do need to examine?
How to examine?