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


METHODS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
The early use of rhEGF in surgical wound healing may improve cutaneous scar quality.
Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology Research Institute and.
Jung U
JU
Shin
Sang-Wook
SW
Kang
Jong Ju
JJ
Jeong
Kee-Hyun
KH
Nam
Woong Youn
WY
Chung
Ju Hee
JH
Lee
D000328:Adult; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004890:Erythema / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D013965:Thyroidectomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000187:drug effects*
D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor
Epidermal growth factor; prevention; scars