defined: represents an excessive proliferation of collagen [scar tissue]
following trauma to the skin.
Clinically, a keloid apperars as an elevated, firm protuberant nodule
[ Principles of Dermatology by Lookingbill & Marks] --
it is an overgrown scar!
epidermis maybe atrophic, dermis has highly compacted whorls of collagen
that push up.
incidence is higher in those aaged 10 - 30 yrs. Blacks are more
prone to keloids, with those in black African populations having a prevalence
of about 6% [ 1986 statistic]
can occur anywhere but tend to appear on upper back, chest , earlobes
and deltoid area
keloids develop over weeks to months following trauma [even ear piercing
can cause keloids!], surgical wounds, or other wounds, and may be seen
as a consequence of severe acne.
surgical removal is not advised, as the keloid often grows back, larger
than before.
resources used:
Principles of Dermatology by Lookingbill & Marks.
Saunders Publishers 1986
The Merck Manual 15th ed, Berkow & Fletcher editors.
Merck Sharp & Dohme Research Labs 1987