Keloid
Pronunciation: KEE-loyd
A benign fibroproliferative scar that extends beyond the boundaries of the original wound, formed by excessive collagen deposition.
Full Definition
A keloid is an abnormal proliferative scar resulting from dysregulated wound healing in which fibroblasts deposit excess collagen, causing the scar to extend beyond the edges of the original wound margin. Keloids are firm, raised, often pruritic or painful, and do not regress spontaneously, distinguishing them from hypertrophic scars which remain within wound margins. They are more prevalent in individuals with darker skin phototypes and in certain body regions such as the earlobes, chest, and shoulders. Editors must not confuse 'keloid' (noun/adjective) with 'cheloid,' an older synonym now largely obsolete. The adjective form is 'keloidal' (not 'keloidic').
Usage
Usage note: The adjective form is 'keloidal'; 'cheloid' is an obsolete synonym and should be flagged as outdated. Distinguish from 'hypertrophic scar' at all times in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient developed a large keloid on the anterior chest following a median sternotomy scar." — Surgical dermatology outpatient letter
- "The author used 'cheloid,' which the editor updated to 'keloid' in keeping with current terminological standards." — Journal manuscript editing note