Quality of life in adults with keloid scars

Abstract

Introduction: Keloid scars affect up to 16% of the Hispanic population and may cause deterioration in the quality of life. Most of the previous studies have focused on patients with hypertrophic scars secondary to bums. Objective: To determine the quality of life in adults with keloid scars that go to a dermatological center. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out at Centro Dermatologico Dr. Ladislao de la Pascua in adults with a diagnosis of keloid scars. The quality of life was measured using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the following clinical variables were studied: age, sex, evolution time, scar size, number of scars and affected topography. The Beck questionnaire for depression was also applied. Results: 106 adults with keloid scars were recruited, 61% men and 39% women, with a median age of 26 years (interquartile range: +/- 18 years). The average score of the DLQI was 5.58 (standard deviation [SD]: +/- 5.528), with a maximum obtained of 22 points, this score is interpreted as a minimum or small deterioration of the quality of life. The dimension that contributed most to the total score was symptoms and feelings, with 50.36%. The number of scars and age were directly associated with the DLQI score. The average score obtained with the Beck questionnaire was: 6.45 (SD: +/- 6.46 points) and it correlates with the DLO! score. Conclusions: Keloid scars have a minimal negative effect on the quality of life of young adults. This effect was associated with the self-report of depressive symptoms; however, the results of this study do not allow to attribute a causal relationship. It is recommended to apply the quality of life questionnaire in young adults with scars.