Successful Treatment of Recurrent Earlobe Keloid Through Removal of Concealed Underlying Epidermoid Cysts: A Case Report

Cureus. 2023 Sep 3;15(9):e44602. doi: 10.7759/cureus.44602. eCollection 2023 Sep.

Abstract

In modern clinical practice, earlobe keloids demonstrate a high cure rate through surgical intervention and suitable adjuvant therapies. Furthermore, the concurrence of keloids and epidermoid cysts is uncommon, potentially attributed to the lack of skin appendages within keloid tissue. This case report presents the successful treatment of a recurrent earlobe keloid through the removal of concealed underlying epidermoid cysts. The lesion recurred even after the second excision and proper adjuvant treatments. It was finally stabilized following the removal of epidermoid cysts within the earlobe at the third surgical procedure. These findings emphasize the importance of identifying underlying conditions associated with keloids and addressing inflammation, as these factors significantly influence treatment outcomes and resistance.

Keywords: ear; epidermoid cyst; keloid; recurrence; surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports