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
What's inside
keloids It’s a tough heaped up scar that rises abruptly above normal skin Genetically predisposed Causes Skin trauma infection Skin tension Spontaneus keloid Risk factor Darker complexions Age 20-30yrs PATHOPHYSIOLOGY Results as an over growth of granulation tissue Increases proliferation of fibroblasts producing abundant extracellular matrix,increased mesenchymal cell density and blood vessel density CLINICAL FEATURES Scar grows over normal skin Lumpy,ridged area on skin Shiny,hairless Can be painful and itchy Pink to red or of normal skin Rubbery,hard Commonly found on Chest,upper arm,ear lobe,cheeks INVESTIGATIONS Physical examination histology DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS Hypertrophic scar TREATMENT Mechanical compression Silicone gel sheet occlusion Irradiation Steroid injection Laser therapy Surgical excision crayotherapy
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