563 Progress on the development of a Keloid Area and Severity Index (KASI) to aid in evaluation of keloids in clinical and research settings

Abstract

While the field of dermatology has many condition-specific area and severity indices, such as the PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index), the EASI (Eczema Area and Severity Index), and the MASI (Melasma Area and Severity Index), there is no such metric to quantify the disease status of keloids. More commonly occurring in those of African, Asian, and Hispanic backgrounds, keloids result due to an exaggerated wound healing response. Due to a lack of standardized parameters in the literature, it is difficult to objectively compare results of clinical trials involving keloid treatment. It is similarly difficult to document the clinical progression of keloids. Using patient feedback, previous literature, and clinical expertise, the keloid area and severity index (KASI) was developed. It includes both an activity score and a damage score, with contribution from lesion characteristics of erythema, suppuration/crust, elevation, and percent body surface area covered. A group of 6 dermatologists and dermatology resident were trained virtually with a PowerPoint presentation detailing use of the KASI. 20 sets of patient photographs were identified and rated with the proposed index by this group of raters twice, about 1 week apart. To determine the validity of the proposed index, analysis is currently being performed to establish the level of intra-rater and inter-rater reliability.