Functional Histopathology of Keloid Disease

Keloid disease was a benign but aggressive skin condition characterized by excessive scarring, unique to humans, and often leading to aesthetic and functional issues. The review explored the histological features of keloids, noting their similarity to other skin fibroses, which complicated diagnosis. Key histological features included a tongue-like advancing edge in the papillary dermis, a thickened epidermis, and disorganized collagen bundles. Keloid scars showed an altered collagen ratio and increased expression of certain proteins compared to healthy skin. The review also identified gaps in the literature and suggested areas for future research, emphasizing the roles of inflammation, hypoxia, and tension in keloid pathology.