Keloids by - Dermatology-UNZA

Description

This dermatology resource provides a concise overview of keloids, a type of hypertrophic scarring that extends beyond the original wound boundaries. The notes detail the pathophysiology, highlighting the role of fibroblast proliferation and increased extracellular matrix production, alongside key clinical features such as raised, rubbery, and often pruritic or painful lesions commonly found on the chest, upper arms, and earlobes. Risk factors including genetic predisposition, darker skin pigmentation, and young adulthood are outlined, alongside differential diagnoses distinguishing keloids from hypertrophic scars. Management options range from conservative approaches like silicone gel sheeting and intralesional steroid injections to surgical excision and adjuvant therapies such as radiation or laser treatment. This material serves as a valuable revision aid for medical students and dermatology trainees in Zambia preparing for exams or clinical practice, offering clear, structured information on the diagnosis and management of keloid scarring. Access this summary to enhance your understanding of common dermatological conditions in tertiary education