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Breakthrough in Keloid Treatment: New Research Offers Hope
Published: Nov 17, 2023
Recent studies are shedding new light on keloid formation and treatment. These findings could revolutionize how we approach these challenging scars, offering hope to millions affected by keloids worldwide.
Unraveling the Genetic Code
A groundbreaking genome-wide association study in Japan has identified four genetic markers linked to keloid formation. One of these, located in the NEDD4 gene, seems to correlate with keloid severity. This discovery opens up exciting possibilities for genetic testing to identify those at high risk and potentially develop targeted therapies. Think of it like finding the specific 'typo' in the body's instruction manual that leads to keloid formation.
The Vascular Connection
New research suggests that problems with blood vessels may play a crucial role in keloid development. Studies show that keloids have more blood vessels than normal scars, and these vessels are often leaky. This leakiness allows inflammatory cells and substances to constantly enter the scar, fueling its growth. It's like having a garden hose with tiny holes – water (inflammation) keeps seeping out, making the surrounding area (the keloid) grow uncontrollably.
Rethinking Radiation Therapy
While radiation has long been used to treat keloids, recent studies are fine-tuning this approach. A large study from Japan found that using precise, lower doses of radiation immediately after keloid removal surgery can dramatically reduce recurrence rates. Out of 494 keloids treated this way, only 9.3% came back – a significant improvement over traditional methods. This approach is like using a precision tool instead of a sledgehammer, minimizing side effects while maximizing results.
Combination Therapies Show Promise
Research is increasingly showing that combining different treatments may be the key to tackling stubborn keloids. One study found that using steroid injections along with 5-fluorouracil (a cancer drug) was more effective than steroids alone. Another promising combination involves using lasers to deliver drugs deep into the scar tissue. These multi-pronged approaches are like attacking the keloid from multiple angles, increasing the chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions
While promising, clinical genetic tests are likely years away.
Lower doses mean less risk, but long-term studies are ongoing.
Many principles apply to both, but more research is needed.
Several are in clinical trials, targeting keloid formation pathways.
Ask your dermatologist about local clinical trials.
A Brighter Future
While challenges remain, these research breakthroughs offer real hope for better keloid prevention and treatment in the coming years.
References
- Nakashima M, Chung S, Takahashi A, et al. A genome-wide association study identifies four susceptibility loci for keloid in the Japanese population. Nat Genet 2010; 42:768.
- Ogawa R, Akaishi S, Kuribayashi S, Miyashita T. Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars Can Now Be Cured Completely: Recent Progress in Our Understanding of the Pathogenesis of Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars and the Most Promising Current Therapeutic Strategy. J Nippon Med Sch 2016; 83:46.
- Arima J, Dohi T, Kuribayashi S, et al. Z-plasty and Postoperative Radiotherapy for Anterior Chest Wall Keloids: An Analysis of 141 Patients. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open 2019; 7:e2177.
- Ren Y, Zhou X, Wei Z, et al. Efficacy and safety of triamcinolone acetonide alone and in combination with 5-fluorouracil for treating hypertrophic scars and keloids: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Wound J 2017; 14:480.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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