Keloidoscope: in search for the ideal treatment of keloids

Although keloids were recognised in the Smith Papyrus of ancient times, the precise definition, cause and management have remained elusive. Several forms of treatment have been used with varying success.Objectives This study assesses and compares the value of intralesional steroid (Triamcinolone acetonide 40mg/ml), cryotherapy and cryotherapy with intralesional steroid in the treatment of keloids.Methodology 33 patients were studied, 11 each in the three arms and the volume of the keloids was recorded using wax patterns of alginate impressions of the keloids to note the change in size postoperatively.Results The best average percentage response was observed is patients who received both Cryotherapy (CRY) and Intralesional Steroid (ILS) (69.02%) followed by patients who received only intralesional steroid (43.98%). Among the patients who received only cryotherapy, the average percentage response was only 39.24%. 72.73% patients who received intralesional steroid with cryotherapy showed more than 50% improvement (good response) while only 9.09% patients who received intralesional steroid alone and cryotherapy alone showed similar improvement.Conclusion In patients with keloids good response can be obtained with CRY with ILS as compared to ILS alone and CRY alone.