The effects of sirolimus on wound healing in dermatologic surgery.
BACKGROUND
Sirolimus, a TOR (target of rapamycin)-binding immunosuppressant, has been associated with wound healing complications; however, its effects have not been documented in dermatologic surgery.


OBJECTIVE
The objective was to determine the effect of sirolimus on wound healing in dermatologic surgery.


METHODS
Databases at Mayo Clinic were queried for organ transplant recipients undergoing dermatologic surgery. Medical records were reviewed retrospectively, and telephone interviews were conducted. Patients receiving sirolimus were compared with patients not receiving sirolimus.


RESULTS
Postoperative infections occurred in 19.2% of the sirolimus group (n=26) and 5.4% of the controls (n=37; p=.11; odds ratio [OR], 4.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.7-23.4). The incidence of wound dehiscence was greater in the sirolimus group (7.7% vs. 0%; p=.17; OR, 7.7; 95% CI, 0.4-166.3).


CONCLUSIONS
No significantly increased risk of wound complications was found in organ transplant recipients receiving sirolimus while undergoing dermatologic surgery. However, this study was retrospective and had a small sample size. A larger study is necessary for corroboration.
Brewer
Jerry D
JD
Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
Otley
Clark C
CC
Christenson
Leslie J
LJ
Phillips
P Kim
PK
Roenigk
Randall K
RK
Weaver
Amy L
AL
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D020123:Sirolimus / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000187:drug effects*
D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D020123:Sirolimus