Current Methods of Treatment for Hypertrophic Scars, keloids and future directions

Abstract

Hypertrophic scars and keloids arise due to dysregulated wound healing, often influenced by genetic predisposition, skin tension, infection, and anatomical site. Both conditions show increased fibroblast activity, overproduction of extracellular matrix proteins (especially type III collagen in hypertrophic scars and type I in keloids), and abnormal growth factor signaling (notably TGF-β). Treatment remains challenging due to high recurrence rates, particularly in keloids, necessitating multimodal and individualized strategies. The choice of therapy depends on scar type, size, location, symptoms, and patient characteristics.