Keloids are scars, unique to humans, that grow beyond the boundaries of a cutaneous
injury, inflammation, burn, or surgical incision. Although benign, keloids are often aesthetically
malignant. The etiology of keloids is uncertain. However, we do know that they occur
more often in African-American and Asian than Caucasian patients. There is no one
therapeutic modality that either prevents the formation of keloids or treats active or inactive
lesions. Consequently, there are many therapeutic options. In this review, an approach to
medical and surgical management of keloids is provided, as well as a review of experimental
therapeutic modalities.
Semin Cutan Med Surg 28:71-76 © 2009 Published by Elsevier Inc.

Keloids are scars, unique to humans, that grow beyond the boundaries of a cutaneous
injury, inflammation, burn, or surgical incision. Although benign, keloids are often aesthetically
malignant. The etiology of keloids is uncertain. However, we do know that they occur
more often in African-American and Asian than Caucasian patients. There is no one
therapeutic modality that either prevents the formation of keloids or treats active or inactive
lesions. Consequently, there are many therapeutic options. In this review, an approach to
medical and surgical management of keloids is provided, as well as a review of experimental
therapeutic modalities.
Semin Cutan Med Surg 28:71-76 © 2009 Published by Elsevier Inc.