Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Epidermal Growth Factor, and Epithelialization Analysis on Full-Thickness Wound Applied with Topical Erythropoietin

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Skin wounds are a major challenge, such as full-thickness wounds that need a long time to heal. However, the addition of erythropoietin can accelerate the wound healing process. AIM: This study was aimed to determine the effect of topical erythropoietin administration on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and epithelialization in the wound healing process. METHODS: This was randomized controlled trial. Full-thickness wounds were created on the back of each white rat. No treatment was administered in the control group (n=16), and topical erythropoietin was applied in the treatment group (n=16). The rats were euthanized on day 3 and day 6 post-surgery, respectively. The expression levels of VEGF, EGF, and microscopic epithelialization rate were examined. RESULTS: The level of EGF expression in the treatment group increased significantly on day 3 by 2.84 times compared to the control group and on day 6 increased to 4.89 times compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The level of VEGF expression in the treatment group on day 3 increased 2.18 times compared to the control group and on day 6 increased to 2.65 times compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, epithelialization in the treatment group on day 3 increased 1.3 times compared to the control group and on day 6 increased up to 7.62 times compared to the control group (p < 0.001). CONLUSION: Topical administration of erythropoietin could increase the expression of VEGF, EGF, and epithelialization in both early inflammatory and proliferative phases.