The present invention relates generally to an assay for use in a clinical protocol to manage the extent of scarring or potential scarring associated with wound healing in human and animal subjects. The assay comprises an assessment of the likelihood of aberrant scar formation associated with fibrosis by screening for time-related sensitivity to an activin in fibroblasts. A treatment regime is proposed for subjects at risk of aberrant scar formation. The present invention is applicable to surface wounds and internal wounds.
