Effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor on cutaneous scar quality in thyroidectomy patients. (April 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shin, Jung U; Kang, Sang-Wook; Jeong, Jong Ju; Nam, Kee-Hyun; Chung, Woong Youn; Lee, Ju Hee
• Is Part Of: Journal of dermatological treatment. Volume 26:Number 2(2015:Apr.)
• Page Start: 159
• Page End: 164
• Publication Date: 2015-04
• Subjects: Skin -- Diseases -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Skin Diseases -- drug therapy -- Periodicals; Skin Diseases -- therapy -- Periodicals; 616.5
• DOI: 10.3109/09546634.2014.906034
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0954-6634

Abstract

<abstract> <title>Abstract</title> <p> <italic>Background</italic>: Epidermal growth factor (EGF) decreases inflammatory cell infiltration and TGF-β expression during wound healing. Several clinical studies show that recovery of various ulcer wounds, such as diabetic and radiation ulcer, is promoted by EGF.</p> <p> <italic>Objective</italic>: To evaluate effects of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) on cutaneous scar quality after thyroidectomy.</p> <p> <italic>Method</italic>: Scar quality was evaluated by Vancouver scar scale (VSS) in two groups of female thyroidectomy patients (control, <italic>n</italic> = 11; rhEGF-treated, <italic>n</italic> = 10). Scar erythema, pigmentation, elasticity and hydration were measured by mexameter, cutometer and corneometer.</p> <p> <italic>Results</italic>: Scar pliability (at 4 weeks) and thickness (2 weeks) after surgery were significantly lower in the rhEGF group than control. Total VSS score was significantly lower in the rhEGF group after 4 weeks. However, erythema, pigmentation, elasticity and hydration of the scar were not significantly different between groups.</p> <p> <italic>Conclusion</italic>: The early use of rhEGF in surgical wound healing may improve cutaneous scar quality.</p> </abstract>