What is the medical definition of keloids?

Keloids are raised, firm, and often itchy or painful scars. They typically develop after a skin injury, such as a surgical incision, laceration, or burn. Keloids can occur on any part of the body, but they are most common on the chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms.

Keloids are caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue. When the skin is injured, the body produces collagen to repair the damage. In some cases, the body may produce too much collagen, leading to the formation of a keloid.

Keloids can range in size from small, pea-sized lesions to large, disfiguring masses. They can also vary in color, from pink or flesh-colored to dark red or brown.

Keloids are not cancerous, but they can be unsightly and uncomfortable. They can also interfere with movement and cause pain or itching.

Treatment for keloids is challenging, and there is no cure. Treatment options include:

* Steroid injections: Steroid injections can help to reduce inflammation and itching.

* Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove large or disfiguring keloids.

* Laser therapy: Laser therapy can be used to reduce the appearance of keloids.

* Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves freezing the keloid to destroy the tissue.

* Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to treat keloids that are resistant to other treatments.