What is a keloid?

A keloid is specifically defined as an abnormal growth of scar tissue that forms at the site of a healed skin injury. This type of scar develops when there is an excess production of collagen during the healing process, leading to raised and thickened areas on the skin that can extend beyond the original wound boundaries. Keloids typically appear darker than the surrounding skin and can be itchy or uncomfortable, though they are not harmful in a medical sense.

This understanding of keloids is critical in the context of tissue integrity because it highlights how tissue remodeling after an injury can result in atypical healing responses. Recognizing keloids is essential for dermatological assessments and treatments that may be aimed at minimizing their formation or appearance.