Which statement distinguishes a keloid from a hypertrophic scar?

Which statement distinguishes a keloid from a hypertrophic scar?

• A. Keloids extend beyond the inciting injury margins.
• B. Hypertrophic scars extend beyond the inciting injury margins.
• C. Keloids arise only after severe wounds.
• D. Keloids disappear completely over time.

Answer: (A)

The key distinction is where the scar tissue grows relative to the original injury. A keloid extends beyond the borders of the wound, invading surrounding normal skin, and tends to persist or even grow over time. In contrast, a hypertrophic scar stays within the original wound margins and often stabilizes or gradually improves. Keloids can arise after relatively minor injuries and are often persistent, whereas hypertrophic scars are raised but contained to the wound area and may diminish with time or treatment. Keloids rarely disappear completely on their own.

The key distinction is where the scar tissue grows relative to the original injury. A keloid extends beyond the borders of the wound, invading surrounding normal skin, and tends to persist or even grow over time. In contrast, a hypertrophic scar stays within the original wound margins and often stabilizes or gradually improves.

Keloids can arise after relatively minor injuries and are often persistent, whereas hypertrophic scars are raised but contained to the wound area and may diminish with time or treatment. Keloids rarely disappear completely on their own.