The use of corticosteroids to treat keloids: a review

Int J Low Extrem Wounds. 2008 Sep;7(3):137-45. doi: 10.1177/1534734608320786. Epub 2008 Jul 8.

Abstract

Mechanisms for keloid formation include drastic changes in growth factor actions, collagen turnover, mechanical forces applied over the skin, and genetic and immunologic contributions. The use of corticosteroids to manage keloids increases basic fibroblast growth factor production while decreasing transforming growth factor-beta1 production by human dermal fibroblasts, endogenous vascular endothelial growth factor, and insulin-like growth factor-1. The use of corticosteroid injections is, to date, the core treatment available for the management of excessive tissue production in scars. Currently, the most effective and safe regimen for keloid management appears to be the use of corticotherapy-injection of intradermal steroids after a surgical excision.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / administration & dosage
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use*
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cicatrix, Hypertrophic / drug therapy*
  • Collagen / metabolism
  • Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Insulin-Like Growth Factor I / drug effects
  • Keloid / drug therapy*
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta1 / drug effects
  • Triamcinolone Acetonide / therapeutic use*
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / drug effects

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta1
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Fibroblast Growth Factor 2
  • Insulin-Like Growth Factor I
  • Collagen
  • Triamcinolone Acetonide