Treatment of scars: a review

Hypertrophic scars and keloids occur as the result of an exaggerated wound healing response of the skin following injury. In addition to presenting a cosmetic concern, hypertrophic scars and keloids may be painful or pruritic and may restrict range of motion. There is no universally accepted treatment modality resulting in permanent hypertrophic or keloid scar ablation. Atrophic scars secondary to surgery, trauma, and common conditions such as acne vulgaris and varicella may also be disfiguring. This review discusses the etiology and clinical course of hypertrophic, keloid, and atrophic scars. The vast array of treatment modalities which have been implemented in an effort to eradicate scars are reviewed. The advent and development of laser technology represents perhaps the most promising treatment modality for the cosmetic and functional improvement of cutaneous scars.