What are keloids a result of?

Keloids are a type of abnormal scar that occurs when the body produces an excess of collagen during the healing process of a wound. Unlike normal scar tissue, which remains flat and contained within the boundaries of the original wound, keloids extend beyond the site of injury and can create raised, protruding areas on the skin. This excessive growth is due to an overproduction of granulation tissue that does not regress after the skin heals, resulting in a thicker and more fibrous scar.

Normal wound healing involves a complex process where the skin and underlying tissues repair themselves without forming excessive scar tissue. In cases of abnormal wound healing, factors such as genetic predisposition, mechanical tension on the wound, and site of injury can contribute to the development of keloids. Keloids can occur in anyone but may be more common in individuals with darker skin tones.

The other choices, while related to skin and wound healing, do not specifically explain the mechanism behind keloid formation. Thus, understanding the nature of keloids as a product of abnormal healing is essential in both clinical practice and patient management.