A raised, firm, irregular scar extending beyond the original wound margins in a 25-year-old develops 3 months after a sternal wound. It continues to grow 2 years later. Histologically, it shows whorled collagen bundles extending into surrounding dermis. This is best classified as:
- A Hypertrophic scar
- B Desmoid tumour
- C Keloid ✓
- D Dermatofibroma
Correct answer: C. Keloid
Explanation
Keloid scars extend beyond the original wound margins (invasion of surrounding normal skin) and continue to grow beyond the maturation phase (beyond 6 months), unlike hypertrophic scars which stay within wound boundaries and regress spontaneously. Histologically, keloids show thick, disorganised, whorled collagen bundles extending into the reticular dermis. The sternal region is a predilection site. Management includes intralesional triamcinolone, silicone gel, compression, or radiation after excision.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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