Keloids are a type of scar that protrudes from the body. The NHS website notes that keloids are shiny, hairless and can feel hard and rubbery. Keloids can result from skin injuries as minor as a piercing and develop in delicate areas such as the earlobe. They form as a result of an over-active immune system. Skin cells and connective tissues called fibroblasts multiply at an accelerated rate in response to skin damage, notes the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.
Prone
The NHS website suggests that people between the ages of 10 and 30 with African or south Indian descent are most at risk. The reasons for this demographic being most at risk is unknown. Keloids are also thought to be hereditary and for those with keloids in their bloodline, skin injuries such as those created by pimples, insect bites, piercings and splinters can produce a keloid.
Diagnose
Keloids look distinctly like another type of scar called a hypertrophic scar and the two are often confused. ACOD notes that hypertrophics are far more common as they can potentially appear in all skin types and ages. They also don't grow as large and are easier to treat, often fading away on their own if left untouched.
Remove
The danger of surgical keloid removal is that, for those with keloids in their genes, regrowth is not uncommon, even for keloids on earlobes. After removal, a surgeon can inject cortisone or a drug called alpha-interferon directly into the site to prevent regrowth. Another method, with 85 percent success rate, is to expose the scar to electron beam and orthovoltage X-rays, notes ACOD.
Reduce
Because of the risk of a keloid regrowing -- sometimes bigger than before -- a specialist might opt to reduce the scar slowly. MedlinePlus notes that the hormone cortisone can be injected directly into the scar. After six months of one injection per month, the keloid can dissolve, states ACOD. Topical application of liquid nitrogen, called cryosurgery, can also be used to reduce swelling and the size of the scar.
Considerations
The NHS website concedes that treatment of keloid scars is not always successful. A keloid might not develop until months after an injury and can last for years. They can't turn into cancer tumors and are not contagious. If you are unsure whether you have a keloid or an hypertrophic scar, consult your doctor.
