Keloid Scar

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a keloid scar involves visually examining the affected area.

However, in certain cases where there is uncertainty or a need to eliminate the possibility of skin cancer, a skin biopsy may be recommended.

Treatment

While it is not possible to completely eliminate a keloid scar, various treatments can enhance its appearance and alleviate irritation. Surgical removal is generally discouraged as it often results in the keloid returning and potentially growing larger.

Keloid scar treatments encompass a range of options, and the most suitable approach may involve a single method or a combination of them. Common treatment options include:

• Wound treatment:Compression dressings are typically advised to be worn for 12 to 24 hours daily over a period of 4 to 6 months, as part of the initial treatment for recently formed keloids. Compression dressings are crafted from elastic fabrics or alternative materials. This approach is also applied post-surgery for keloid removal with the aim of minimizing or preventing scarring by applying pressure to the healing wound.
• Corticosteroid cream:Itching may be reduced by using a prescription-strength corticosteroid cream.
• Injected medication:Monthly keloid injections of cortisone or other steroid may be recommended for up to six months. This medication can help reduce the thickness or flatten the scar. Potential side effects include skin thinning, spider veins, and permanent changes in skin color.
• Cryotherapy:Freezing small keloids with liquid nitrogen could potentially reduce or eliminate them, with the possibility of needing repeat treatments. Potential side effects of cryotherapy include blistering, pain, and a loss of skin color.
• Laser treatment:The therapy typically involves multiple sessions spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart. Combining laser therapy with cortisone injections may also be recommended. Pulsed-dye laser sessions can flatten larger keloids, and this approach has proven effective in relieving itchiness and promoting keloid fading. Potential side effects, especially in people with darker skin, may involve changes in skin color and the development of blisters and crusts.
• Radiation therapy:This treatment can assist in reducing or minimizing scar tissue. Multiple treatments using low-level X-ray radiation may be recommended either independently or following surgical removal of a keloid. However, the risk of long-term effects such as cancer, and skin complications are among the potential side effects.
• Surgical excision: Surgery results has a recurrence rate ranging from 45% to 100%. Surgical removal in conjunction with other methods is typically recommended if the keloid has not shown improvement with other treatments.