litteken

Litteken, commonly translated as scar, is a patch of fibrous tissue that forms after skin or tissue injury as part of the healing process. It results from the body's repair mechanisms, where collagen is laid down to fill a wound and gradually reorganized during remodeling. Scars are a normal outcome of wound healing, but their appearance, texture, and function can vary.

Scars can be classified by appearance and tissue change. Common types include atrophic scars, which indent the skin (such as acne or chickenpox scars); hypertrophic scars, which are raised but stay within the wound borders; and keloids, which grow beyond the original wound and may recur after treatment. Burns, surgical incisions, and deep cuts can all produce different scar patterns. Contracture scars from burns may limit movement by tightening the skin.

Causes and risk factors include skin injuries, surgical wounds, burns, acne, and inflammatory skin diseases. Some people are genetically predisposed to developing thicker or more extensive scars, and certain body areas and skin tensions influence scar formation. Ethnicity can affect the likelihood of developing keloids.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on appearance and history. In uncertain cases, a clinician may examine the scar's thickness and tissue characteristics or perform a biopsy to rule out other conditions.

Treatment aims to improve appearance or function and may include silicone gel sheets or creams, pressure therapy for raised scars, intralesional corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, dermabrasion, or surgical revision. Other options include radiotherapy for select keloids, cryotherapy, or topical therapies. Prevention focuses on proper wound care, minimizing tension on the wound, sun protection, and, when appropriate, early use of silicone products.

Outcomes vary; most scars are permanent but can become less noticeable over time with appropriate management.