RESUMO
PURPOSE: Evaluation of a new treatment for keloid scars using a 40% phenol solution in accordance with a predefined protocol. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was made of the files of 25 patients treated with phenol from June 2010 to March 2012. RESULTS: The keloids were located predominantly on the trunk (48%) and upper extremities (34%). The total number of keloids was 52, with a median size of 11.16 cm(2). Phenol was the sole and first-line treatment in 40% of cases. Patient adherence to the protocol of phenol was noted in 81% of cases. The mean number of phenol sessions was 14.2. Seventy-two percent of patients were satisfied with the treatment. Mean regression in keloid size of 75.5% was noted. A change in local keloid pigmentation was observed in 75% of patients. Local adverse reactions (itching, infection, ulceration) were seen in 6 patients (28.6%). No cases of systemic signs of phenol were observed. After mean follow-up of 12.8 months, no recurrence of keloids was noted. CONCLUSION: Use of phenols in the topical treatment of keloids appears valuable since it is easy to apply and provides good results with few side effects.