Epidermal growth factor in the healing of second degree burns: a controlled animal study.

The effects of the topical application of epidermal growth factor (EGF) on the healing of partial-thickness scald burns in rats was evaluated. Time to complete healing, the rate of healing, daily percentage weight change, and cell growth were the measured parameters. We were able to demonstrate an insignificant healing advantage with the topical application of EGF, by itself or in combination with silver sulphadiazine. This insignificant healing advantage does not warrant clinical evaluation.