Quality of life in individuals with auricular keloids

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Keloids are abnormal proliferations of scar tissue that do not regress spontaneously. Studies on the quality of life in patients with auricular keloids are rare. This condition is a frequent complaint, occurring in a highly visible area. OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of auricular keloids on the quality of life of affected individuals, demonstrating that psychological and physical symptoms are common and significantly affect patients. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional, observational analytical study conducted in São Paulo. Patients with auricular keloids completed the QualiFibro questionnaire, a validated tool specific for assessing quality of life in individuals with auricular keloids. RESULTS: Seventeen patients with auricular keloids were analyzed. The questionnaire revealed that most participants experienced some degree of physical impairment (76% reported itching, and 58% reported pain in their keloids). All participants showed psychological distress to varying degrees. DISCUSSION: Patients often associate their keloids with feelings of shame and low self-esteem. We believe that raising awareness of the negative psychological impact of this condition can help dermatologists better understand these patients’ concerns and provide empathetic support, aiming to make them feel more comfortable in their own skin.

Keywords

• keloid
• quality of life
• ear auricle