Comparison of Cryotherapy Plus Triamcinolone Versus 5-Fluorouracil Plus Triamcinolone for Keloid Treatment
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66344/jpad.v36i2.3374Keywords:
keloid, cryotherapy, Triamcinolone acetonide, 5-Fluorouracil,, Scar treatment, Intralesional injectionAbstract
Background Keloids are a common fibroproliferative disorder resulting from abnormal wound healing and can cause significant cosmetic concerns, itching, pain, and psychological distress. Despite the availability of multiple treatment options, recurrence remains a major challenge, and no single therapy has been established as the gold standard. Therefore, identifying more effective treatment combinations is essential for improving patient outcomes.
Objective To compare the efficacy of cryotherapy combined with intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (TA) versus intralesional 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) combined with TA for the treatment of keloids.
Methods 122 patients with keloids were equally divided into two groups. Group A received cryotherapy followed by intralesional triamcinolone acetonide, while Group B received intralesional 5-fluorouracil combined with triamcinolone acetonide. Treatments were administered at 4-week intervals for six sessions. Efficacy was assessed at 24 weeks based on a ≥50% reduction in scar height measured using a caliper.
Results Overall efficacy was significantly higher in Group B (91.8%) compared to Group A (70.5%) (P= .003). A greater response was observed in older patients, higher BMI categories, and in nodular, flat, mid-sternal, and leg lesions.
Conclusion Intralesional 5-FU combined with TA is more effective than cryotherapy with TA for keloid management, particularly in resistant or long-standing lesions. Larger randomized trials with extended follow-up are recommended to assess long-term outcomes and recurrence.
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