Daith keloid: what should you know?

Keloids are firm, raised scars that can enlarge beyond the piercing channel and may itch, feel tender, or become sensitive when jewellery rubs them. A smaller bump confined to the wound can be a different scar response. Infection is more concerning when there is increasing warmth, throbbing pain, pus, spreading redness, or fever. A [Skin Lumps](/symptoms/skin-lumps/) assessment can help distinguish scar tissue from irritation, an abscess, or another lesion. Do not assume every piercing bump is a keloid.

Avoid squeezing, cutting, or repeatedly rotating the jewellery. Keep the area clean with gentle care and reduce pressure from headphones, hair, or sleeping on that ear. A clinician may discuss [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/) to soften or flatten a keloid. Other options can include [Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/pulsed-dye-laser-treatment/), cryotherapy, or surgery; recurrence after treatment is possible, so the plan may combine methods and follow-up. Jewellery removal should be discussed with the treating clinician, particularly if infection is possible.

Arrange a dermatology review if the lump is enlarging, itchy, painful, or extending beyond the piercing site. Seek prompt care for pus, marked warmth, rapidly spreading redness, fever, severe pain, or jewellery becoming embedded. Do not delay assessment if the ear is significantly swollen or the cartilage is very tender.

Is this a keloid, another scar type, irritation, or infection? Should the jewellery stay in place? Which combination of injections, laser, freezing, or [Keloid Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/keloid-excision/) fits its size and location?