From the Research
Role of Corticosteroids in Treating Keloids
- Corticosteroids are a first-line therapy in keloid treatment, with intralesional corticosteroid administration (ICA) being a commonly used method 1, 2, 3.
- Triamcinolone acetonide is the most commonly used corticosteroid for ICA, with a concentration of 40 mg/mL being preferred 3.
- The dosing and treatment intervals of ICA vary widely, with some studies using doses ranging from 1 to 20 mg per cm2 and treatment intervals ranging from weekly to monthly 2.
- Local anesthesia may be used to minimize pain during ICA, but its use is not universally agreed upon 2, 3.
- The use of corticosteroids in combination with other treatments, such as silicone gel or sheeting, 5-fluorouracil, bleomycin, or verapamil, may be considered for keloid treatment 4, 5.
Efficacy of Corticosteroids in Keloid Treatment
- Corticosteroids have been shown to be effective in reducing the height and pliability of keloids, with triamcinolone acetonide being more effective than verapamil in one study 4.
- However, the efficacy of corticosteroids can vary depending on the individual and the specific treatment protocol used 1, 2.
- Larger and more robust controlled studies are necessary to further understand the efficacy of corticosteroids in keloid treatment and to establish standardized treatment protocols 5.
Administration of Corticosteroids
- ICA can be administered using a hypodermic needle, with a 25 or 27 gauge needle being preferred 3.
- The injection level and technique can vary, with some studies using a subepidermal or intradermal injection technique 2.
- Blanching of the skin can be used as an endpoint for successful infiltration of the corticosteroid 3.