ärrtyper

ärrtyper, or scar types, are categories used in medicine to describe the appearance and tissue characteristics of scars resulting from skin injury or surgery. Classification focuses on morphology and behavior of the scar, aiding diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment choices.

Hypertrophic scars are raised scars that remain within the boundaries of the original wound. They often develop after surgery or burns and may improve over time. Keloid scars extend beyond the original wound margin and can recur after treatment; they are more common in certain populations and reflect abnormal collagen organization.

Atrophic scars are depressed relative to surrounding skin and occur when underlying tissue is lost. They include acne scars and certain post-inflammatory scars, with subtypes such as ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling scars, each with distinct contour and depth. Contracture scars result from burns and can restrict movement by shortening and tightening the skin and underlying tissues.

Stretch marks, or striae distensae, are linear dermal scars caused by rapid stretching of the skin. They are often considered cosmetic rather than traumatic scars but are commonly discussed in scar typology.

Diagnosis typically relies on clinical examination, history, and imaging or histology when needed. Several assessment tools exist, such as the Vancouver Scar Scale and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, to quantify scar characteristics like color, height, pliability, and symptoms.

Management is type-dependent. General principles include protecting the wound, sun protection, and topical silicone. Hypertrophic and keloid scars may be treated with intralesional corticosteroids, silicone therapy, pressure garments for burns, and laser or cryotherapy; surgical revision carries a risk of recurrence. Atrophic and acne scars may respond to dermal fillers, subcision, microneedling, and laser resurfacing. A multidisciplinary approach is often needed to optimize function and appearance and to reduce recurrence risk.