Patterned wound healing effect of topical recombinant human epidermal growth factor in trophic ulcers secondary to leprosy

The aim of this study was to evaluate the wound healing effect of topical recombinant human Epidermal Growth Factor (Rh EGF) in trophic ulcers in leprosy patients. 40 patients, 29 males and 11 females, were included in the study. Re-epithelialization started on the 7th day, most of it occurred from the 2nd week onwards. Symmetric concentric hyperkeratosis started from the periphery and migrated towards the centre. In 4th to 5th week, complete uniform healing was noted with shedding of the overlying hyperkeratotic plaque. There was faster wound healing with excessive uniform keratosis that eventually desquamated, Ulcers healed with minimal healthy scar formation (almost scar free closure) and subsequent longer ulcer free interval. Overall it can be concluded from this study that topical Rh EGF is effective in promoting faster and better wound repair.