Editing Keloid (section)

==Pathology==
[[File:Keloid -1.jpg|thumb|Micrograph of keloid. Thick, hyalinised collagen fibres are characteristic of this aberrant healing process. H&E stain.]]

[[Histologically]], keloids are fibrotic tumors characterized by a collection of atypical [[fibroblast]]s with excessive deposition of [[extracellular matrix]] components, especially [[collagen]], [[fibronectin]], [[elastin]], and [[proteoglycan]]s. Generally, they contain relatively acellular centers and thick, abundant collagen bundles that form nodules in the deep dermal portion of the lesion. Keloids present a therapeutic challenge that must be addressed, as these lesions can cause significant [[pain]], {{lang|la|[[pruritus]]}} (itching), and physical disfigurement. They may not improve in appearance over time and can limit mobility if located over a joint.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-04-01 |title=Keloids |url=https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/keloids-a-to-z |access-date=2024-08-12 |website=Harvard Health |language=en}}</ref>

Keloids affect all sexes equally, although the incidence in young female patients has been reported to be higher than in young males, probably reflecting the greater frequency of [[earlobe piercing]] among women. The frequency of occurrence is 15 times higher in highly pigmented people. People of African descent have an increased risk of keloid occurrences.<ref>{{EMedicine|article|1298013|Wound Healing, Keloids}}</ref>