The development of a scar is a normal process necessary for the healing of wounds. Scars are formed by the collagen produced by fibroblasts in the area of the injury. Initially scars may have a raised or bumpy appearance, but over time tend to diminish in size and flatten. Sometimes, however, fibroblasts do not cease to produce collagen at the proper time, and the resultant scar swells with the fibrous protein to unusual proportions.

If this growth remains restricted to the original location of the wound then it is referred to as a hypertrophic scar, but if it extends past the boundaries of the injured area, then the overgrown scar is called a keloid. The earliest known description of a keloid was found in an ancient Egyptian text and the name of the scar was coined by the early nineteenth-century French physician Jean-Louis Marc Alibert, who specialized in disorders of the skin. Alibert’s use of the term cheloide reflects the unusual clawlike extensions into uninjured regions of the skin that often occur with this type of scar, the Greek word chele meaning "claw of a crab or lobster."

Although a keloid may result after any trauma to the skin, including piercing of the earlobes, surgical incisions, tattoos, acne, and chicken pox, scientists have not yet discovered exactly why the overgrown scar occurs rather than a normal one. Evidence suggests, however, that there may be a genetic element involved since some families have a history of keloid growth and the scars are most prevalent in members of certain races, namely individuals of African or Asian descent.

Keloids can be unsightly and have a tendency to form on the face and on the earlobes due to the common practice of ear piercing, though they can develop anywhere the skin has been damaged. Thus, many individuals seek medical attention in hopes of having keloids surgically removed, but, unfortunately, this practice is associated with a very high rate of recurrence. Due to this fact, a number of alternate methods of treatment have been developed. Among some of the more common forms of therapy besides excision are compression therapy, laser therapy, corticosteroid injections, application of silicone gel sheets, and interferon therapy.

Keloid Scar at 10x Magnification - Keloids are not usually painful, but can cause some discomfort depending on where they are located and may be itchy or tender to the touch.

Keloid Scar at 20x Magnification - If a keloid scar is situated on the skin above a joint, some limitation to movement may occur, though the primary concern for most individuals with keloids is of a cosmetic nature.

Keloid Scar at 10x Magnification - The specific form of keloid scar treatment considered best for any individual and its probability of success varies greatly.