Beta-interferon and keloids: Current indications [Beta-interferone e cheloidi: attuali possibilità di impiego clinico]

The cause of pathological hypertrophic scarring seems to lie in abnormalities of fibroblastic activity with subsequent unbalance between cell proliferation and collagen production on one side and lysis on the other. It has been shown that during normal wound healing, some Interferons can modulate fibroblast reproduction and their synthesis of collagen in the late phase. The study we present evaluates, both in vivo and in vitro, the activity of Beta-Interferon in keloid fibroblasts or in scars which, either because of their site or because of the patient's predisposition, show a tendency towards keloid formation. Methods of preparing cultures of fibroblasts and Interferon are described, together with principles of local treatment with Beta-Interferon ointment on surgical scars considered at risk of keloid formation. A further evaluation with computerized elastometry is also described, with the aim of assessing the changes in skin tone. The results suggest a possible activity of the Beta-Interferon even on fibroblasts of developing keloids, and therefore its use in the prevention of pathological scarring.