A Comparative Analysis of Intralesional Injection Triamcinolone Acetonide, Injection Bleomycin, and Radiofrequency Ablation in the treatment of keloids
Main Article Content
Keywords
Keloid, Triamcinolone acetate, Triamcinolone, Bleomycin, Radiofrequency ablation
Abstract
Introduction Keloids are benign overgrowths of fibrous tissue that arise from abnormal wound healing. In addition to symptoms like itching, pain, and texture changes, keloids can cause cosmetic disfigurement and psychological distress, particularly when located on exposed body parts. Numerous treatment modalities exist, but comparative data regarding efficacy and side effect profiles remain limited.
Aims & Objectives This study aimed to compare the efficacy and side effect profile of intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (TAC), intralesional bleomycin, and intralesional radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in the management of keloids.
Methods A total of 117 patients with keloids were enrolled and randomized into three treatment groups: Group A (TAC), Group B (bleomycin), and Group C (RFA). Nine patients were lost to follow-up. Treatment efficacy was assessed using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), and side effects were monitored throughout the study period.
Results All three groups showed significant reductions in POSAS scores compared to baseline. Therapeutic effectiveness was highest in Group A (100%), followed by Group B (80.6%) and Group C (72.2%) (p = 0.004). Side effects were reported in 72% of patients in Groups A and B, and 83.3% in Group C. No recurrence was observed during the 8-week follow-up after treatment completion.
Conclusion All three modalities demonstrated effectiveness in keloid treatment. Triamcinolone showed the greatest efficacy with a relatively favorable side effect profile. Bleomycin was moderately effective, while RFA, though effective, was associated with the highest rate of side effects.
Limitations Unblinded design, small sample size, short follow-up duration, and potential observer/patient bias.
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