Epidermal growth factors
Epidermal growth factors play a fundamental role in wound healing
through stimulating epidermal and dermal regeneration,which participates
in dermal wound healing and dermal regeneration through stimulation,
proliferation, and migration of keratinocyte, endothelial cells, and
fibroblast. 43 Several clinical trials have shown that
epidermal growth factor is an important cytoprotective factor against
injuries, and contributes to wound healing and maintenance of mucosal
integrity in the oral cavity and the gastrointestinal tract.82 Topical application of epidermal growth factor on
the oral mucosa in combination with other conventional treatments may
promote mucosal healing, reduce the severity of intraoral
manifestations, and is therefore an effective treatment option in
paraquat induced mucositis and ulcerations. 44 We
recognized two studies that used recombinant human epidermal growth
factor spray in the management of paraquat induced oral mucositis. The
first study used recombinant human epidermal growth factor spray 3 times
a day in conjunction with other intervention. It was noted that the
incidence of oral mucositis decreased by 12.8%. 18The second trial used recombinant human epidermal growth factor spray
two times a day for patients who presented with no oral mucosal erosions
or ulcerations and three times a day for patients who presented with
ulcerations. It was evident that recombinant human epidermal growth
factor improved healing time and therefore reduced the severity of
symptoms of oral mucositis.