Treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars using topical and intralesional mitomycin C

Background Keloids develop due to the overgrowth of fibrous tissue. Currently, there is no gold standard treatment for keloids and hypertrophic scars (HTS). Their propensity for local invasion and recurrence has prompted many investigations on antineoplastic agents. Objectives To investigate the efficacy of topical and intralesional mitomycin C for the treatment of keloids and HTS. Methods Nine patients with clinically diagnosed keloids and HTS were treated using topical mitomycin C (1 mg/mL) for 3 min after shaving excision. The Vancouver Scars Scale, patient satisfaction, and adverse effects were checked after 6 months. The keloids and HTS were photographed at each monthly visit. Intralesional mitomycin C (1 mg/mL) was administered to study the effect on the regression of keloids in 2 patients. Results Application of mitomycin C to the base of shave‐removed keloids and HTS showed good results. Six out of 9 patients were very satisfied with the outcome of treatment; none were disappointed. The results of intralesional mitomycin C treatment were disappointing. Both cases worsened, with increased ulceration after treatment. Conclusions Topical application of mitomycin C following shaving excision was safe and effective for the treatment of keloids and HTS. However, intralesional mitomycin C therapy aggravated both lesions.