Hypertrophy is a medical term that refers to the abnormal growth of the skin. This growth can occur due to a variety of factors, including genetics, trauma, infection, and inflammation. Many forms of hypertrophy are benign or harmless, but some may require medical intervention.
Skin hypertrophy can result from numerous factors, including genetic predispositions, infections, autoimmune disorders, or environmental factors such as excessive sun exposure or trauma. It can manifest in various forms, including benign growths such as warts, moles, seborrheic keratoses, and dermal fibromas, as well as more concerning skin conditions like keloids, hypertrophic scars, and even malignant tumors. Some hypertrophic skin conditions may also be linked to underlying internal diseases and thus warrant further medical evaluation.
Keloids, a form of hypertrophy, are raised, thickened areas of skin that extend beyond the borders of the original injury or incision. They can be itchy or painful, and may be red or purple in color. Hypertrophic scars are similar to keloids, but do not extend beyond the borders of the original wound. They may be raised, thickened, and discolored. Keloids are more common in the sternum section of the chest area and are more common among people with Fitzpatrick skin type 6.
Skin tags, another form of skin hypertrophy, also known as acrochordons, are small, benign growths that typically occur in areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. They may be flesh-colored or slightly darker, and are usually painless.
In some cases, hypertrophy may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as a connective tissue disorder. It is important to refer clients to a medical professional if there is suspicion of an underlying condition.
Treatment options for hypertrophy vary depending on the type and severity of the growth. For keloids and hypertrophic scars, treatment may include corticosteroid injections, surgical removal, or cryotherapy. Skin tags can be easily removed through a variety of methods, including snipping with scissors, freezing with liquid nitrogen, or burning with an electric current.
Some other treatment options available for hypertrophy including:
- Topical medications: There are a number of topical medications that can be used to treat hypertrophic skin. These medications work by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of the skin.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove hypertrophic skin.
- Laser therapy: Laser therapy can be used to shrink hypertrophic skin.
- Electrodessication: Electrodessication is a procedure that uses heat to destroy hypertrophic skin.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy is a procedure that uses cold to destroy hypertrophic skin.