New Approach to the Understanding of Keloid: Psychoneuroimmune-Endocrine Aspects

February 2015 in “ Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology ”

Felipe Contoli Isoldi, Bernardo Hochman, Fabianne Furtado, Lydia Masako Ferreira

keloid psychoneuroimmune endocrine psychological stress genetic predisposition environmental factors skin central nervous system stress-related hormones neuropeptides CRH IL-6 keloid pathogenesis stress–diathesis model corticotropin-releasing hormone interleukin-6

Studysummary This review explores the "brain-skin connection" and presents evidence suggesting keloids may be influenced by psychosocial stress, although it reports no new experimental results.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

This review explored the psychoneuroimmune–endocrine aspects of keloid formation, suggesting that keloids were influenced by psychological stress, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors. It emphasized the interconnectedness of the skin and central nervous system and the role of stress-related hormones and neuropeptides, such as CRH and IL-6, in keloid pathogenesis. The review proposed a holistic approach to keloid management, involving a multidisciplinary team to address genetic, psychological, and environmental influences, and suggested the stress–diathesis model as a framework for understanding keloid development. It concluded that treating keloids required integrating psychological, neural, immune, and endocrine perspectives.

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