Keloid

Definition

A keloid is an abnormal growth of scar tissue that forms at the site of an injury or incision, extending beyond the original wound boundaries. This excessive fibrous tissue results from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process, leading to raised, thickened areas on the skin. Keloids are considered a type of abnormal wound healing and relate closely to the concepts of cellular adaptation and tissue repair.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Keloids can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and cheeks.
2. They can occur after any type of skin injury, including cuts, burns, piercings, or surgical incisions, but some people are more predisposed to developing them.
3. Keloids can vary in color from pink to dark brown or black, depending on the individual's skin tone.
4. Treatment options for keloids include corticosteroid injections, silicone sheets, laser therapy, and surgical removal; however, recurrence is common.
5. Unlike normal scars, keloids may continue to grow over time and can cause discomfort or itchiness in some cases.

Review Questions

• How do keloids differ from hypertrophic scars in terms of their formation and appearance?
  • Keloids and hypertrophic scars both arise from abnormal wound healing, but they differ significantly in their characteristics. Keloids extend beyond the original boundaries of the injury due to excessive collagen production and continue to grow over time. In contrast, hypertrophic scars remain confined within the limits of the wound and may flatten or fade over time without further growth. Understanding these differences helps in determining appropriate treatment approaches.
• What role do fibroblasts play in the formation of keloids and how does their activity differ from normal wound healing?
  • Fibroblasts are essential cells in the process of wound healing as they produce collagen and extracellular matrix components that help repair tissue. In normal wound healing, fibroblast activity is tightly regulated to ensure proper tissue restoration. However, in keloid formation, there is an overactivity of fibroblasts leading to excessive collagen production that results in a thickened scar. This dysregulation is a key factor in understanding why keloids develop.
• Evaluate the potential psychological and social impacts of living with keloids on individuals affected by them.
  • Living with keloids can have significant psychological and social effects on individuals. Many people experience lowered self-esteem or body image issues due to the visibility of keloids, which may lead to anxiety or depression. Additionally, individuals may face social stigma or misunderstandings regarding their skin condition, impacting their interactions and relationships. Addressing these concerns requires a holistic approach that includes emotional support alongside medical treatment options.

Related terms

Fibroblast: A type of cell that synthesizes the extracellular matrix and collagen, playing a crucial role in wound healing and scar formation.

Hypertrophic Scar: A type of scar that is raised and thick but does not extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound, unlike keloids.

Collagen: A protein that provides structure and strength to skin and other tissues, often overproduced in keloid formation.