Keloids are scars that become larger after the initial wound heals. This image displays a red, firm keloid (scars that continue to grow) on the earlobe. This image displays dark red to brown, large keloids. This image displays keloids from acne scars. Keloids can appear bright red and inflamed. A keloid usually occurs at a trauma site, such as a scratch, overgrowing beyond the area of damage.
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Keloid  Teen information

Picture of Keloid: Keloids are scars that become larger after the initial wound heals. Divider line
Keloids are scars that become larger after the initial wound heals.
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Treatments Your Provider May Prescribe
Keloids are extremely difficult to treat, but your doctor may try the following:
  • Some keloids respond to topically applied silicone sheeting.
  • There has been some success in treating small earlobe keloids with pressure or "clip-on" earrings.
  • Inflamed keloids often respond to steroid injections near the site. There is a risk of thinning of the skin (atrophy) with steroid injections.
Alternative therapies include:
  • Freezing (cryosurgery) plus steroid injections.
  • Surgery plus radiation therapy to the affected area. Surgical removal (excision) of keloids may lead to the keloid coming back (recurring) larger than it was before the excision.
  • Laser therapy with a pulsed-dye laser to actively expanding lesions.
  • Other injectable agents, such as interferon alpha and gamma.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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