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Keloids - Overview

Alternative Names

Hypertrophic scar; Keloid scar; Scar - hypertrophic

Definition of Keloids:

Keloids are the excess growth of scar tissue at the site of a healed skin injury.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Keloids occur from such skin injuries as:

  • Acne
  • Burns
  • Chickenpox
  • Ear piercing
  • Minor scratches
  • Surgical cuts
  • Traumatic wounds
  • Vaccination sites

They are more common in people ages 10 to 20, and in African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics. Keloids often run in families. Keloidosis is a term used when many or repeated keloids occur.

  • Reviewed last on: 10/5/2010
  • Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Juckett G, Hartman-Adams H. Management of keloids and hypertrophic scars. Am Fam Physician. 2009;80(3):253-260

Habif TP. Benign skin tumors. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 20.

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