Effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor on cutaneous scar quality in thyroidectomy patients

Abstract

Background: 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.

Objective: To evaluate effects of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) on cutaneous scar quality after thyroidectomy.

Method: Scar quality was evaluated by Vancouver scar scale (VSS) in two groups of female thyroidectomy patients (control, n = 11; rhEGF-treated, n = 10). Scar erythema, pigmentation, elasticity and hydration were measured by mexameter, cutometer and corneometer.

Results: 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.

Conclusion: The early use of rhEGF in surgical wound healing may improve cutaneous scar quality.

• Epidermal growth factor
• prevention
• scars

Declaration of interest

The authors have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article. None of the authors has conflicts of interest that could potentially influence the described research. This study was supported by grants from Daewoong Pharmaceutical Company, Korea.