The efficacy of topical hyaluronic acid in the management of recurrent aphthous ulceration.
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a topical hyaluronic acid (HA) preparation (0.2%) in the management of recurrent aphthous ulceration (RAU).


METHODS
One hundred and twenty patients with RAU participated in a randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind trial to evaluate the efficacy of the topical HA and preparation. Outcome measures include soreness relief on immediate application (recorded over 60 min). Thereafter, patients completed a log diary recording soreness from the ulcers, occurrence of new ulcers and ulcer duration.


RESULTS
Both topical HA and placebo resulted in a significant reduction in ulcer soreness following immediate application (P = 0.0004). Throughout the rest of the investigation period, there was no significant differences (P > 0.05) between the treatments for reducing soreness. Patients treated with topical HA recorded few ulcers on day 5 of the investigation than those treated with placebo (P < 0.001). Likewise, the occurrence of new ulcers was lower in the HA treated group on day 4 when compared with placebo (P = 0.047).


CONCLUSIONS
Topical HA (0.2%) may be of benefit in the management of RAU. Immediate reduction of symptoms appears to be a barrier effect.
Nolan
A
A
School of Dental Sciences, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. anita.nolan@dundee.ac.uk
Baillie
C
C
Badminton
J
J
Rudralingham
M
M
Seymour
R A
RA
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000328:Adult; D004812:Epidemiologic Methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006820:Hyaluronic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D008297:Male; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy; D013281:Stomatitis, Aphthous / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic; D006820:Hyaluronic Acid