Recurrent earlobe keloids: a combined intralesional injection of 5-fluorouracil and excision

Abstract

Background Management of keloids is still controversial. Many treatment options have been proposed for earlobe keloids, including both surgical and nonsurgical methods. However, no single method has been found completely satisfactory. Objectives To find a new treatment technic that decrease recurrent rate earlobe keloids, Aim The present study aimed to evaluate the eff ect of a combination of intralesional injection of 5-fl uorouracil (5-FU) and surgical excision on the recurrence rate of earlobe keloids. Methods From January 2012 to March 2014, a prospective study was conducted on 50 earlobe keloids on 40 patients with recurrent earlobe keloid, which was bilateral in 10 cases and unilateral in 30 cases. The patients were treated with a combination of intralesional injection of 5-fluorouracil and excision. The ages of the patients ranged from 16 to 40 years (mean age was 26.27 ± 5.16 years). The cause of keloids was ear piercing in all cases. The largest lesion was 4 cm in its greatest dimension and the smallest was 1.5 cm. Results Improvement occurred in 64% of patients with acceptable esthetic results and recurrence occurred in 36% of patients. No relevant individual changes in serum values or blood chemistry were seen. Conclusion This technique is safe, well tolerated, and effective in decreasing or almost preventing the recurrence of earlobe keloids. We recommend this technique for recurrent earlobe keloids with poor response to intralesional therapy.