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.