Keloid scar
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Keloid scar
A keloid is a harmless growth of fibrous tissue at the site of a healing scar caused by overproduction of collagen. Keloids are most common on the breastbone, upper back, and shoulder but can occur anywhere on the body.
Some people, especially those with dark skin, are more prone to developing keloids.
Signs and symptoms include:
- Firm, raised, hard scars.
- Color that varies from slightly pink to very dark.
- Tenderness or itching.
- Continued growth and clawlike projections.
Keloids do not require treatment. However, for cosmetic reasons or to relieve keloid pain or itch, they can be surgically removed or treated with medication. If removed surgically, a keloid may recur in the surgical scar.
Credits
| Author | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Keith A. Denkler, MD - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery |
| Last Updated | August 4, 2008 |
| Last updated: | August 04, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Keith A. Denkler, MD - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
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