Keloids

Definition

Occasionally scars enlarge spontaneously to form firm, smooth, hard growths called Keloids. Common body site (location) any part of the body, commonly on the upper chest and shoulders Prevalence Dark skinned people form keloids more easily than Caucasians. Causes & aggravating factors: Minor injuries Insect bites Pimples.

Symptoms

The following are some of the symptoms of Keloids: Keloids may be uncomfortable or itchy, and may be much larger than the original wound. They can arise soon after the injury, or develop months' later. Keloid scars are usually just a cosmetic problem. They never become malignant. Hypertrophic scars As wounds heal, scar tissue forms, initially it is red and somewhat prominent. Over several months, a scar usually becomes flat and pale. If there is a lot of tension on a healing wound, the healing area is rather thicker than usual. This is known as a hypertrophic scar.

Homeopathic Treatment

Hypertrophic scars generally settle in time but keloids may prove resistant to treatment. The following measures are helpful. • Dressings • Moisturizing oils • Polyurethane or silicone scar reduction patches • Silicone gel • Pressure dressings • Surgical excision (but may result in a second keloid even larger than the original one) • Corticosteroid injection, repeated every few weeks • Cryotherapy • Superficial X-ray treatment soon after surgery. • Pulsed dye laser