Mechanical evaluation of the resistance and elastance of post-burn scars after topical treatment with tretinoin

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:After burn injuries, scarred skin lacks elasticity, especially in hypertrophic scars. Topical treatment with tretinoin can improve the appearance and quality of the skin (i.e., texture, distensibility, color, and hydration). The objective of this prospective study was to examine the effects of treatment with 0.05% tretinoin for one year on the biomechanical behavior and histological changes undergone by facial skin with post-burn scarring. Setting: Tertiary, Institutional.METHOD:Fifteen female patients who had suffered partial thickness burns with more than two years of evolution were selected. Skin biopsies were obtained initially and after one year of treatment. The resistance and elastance of these skin biopsies were measured using a mechanical oscillation analysis system. The density of collagen fibers, elastic fibers, and versican were determined using immunohistochemical analysis.RESULTS:Tretinoin treatment significantly lowered skin resistance and elastance, which is a result that indicates higher distensibility of the skin. However, tretinoin treatment did not significantly affect the density of collagen fibers, elastic fibers, or versican.CONCLUSION:Topical tretinoin treatment alters the mechanical behavior of post-burn scarred skin by improving its distensibility and thus leads to improved quality of life for patients.

All-trans retinoic acid prevents epidural fibrosis through NF-κB signaling pathway in post-laminectomy rats

“…A total of four solutions were prepared (0.1%, 0.05%, and 0.025%; propylene glycol-5%, PBS 45% and alcohol 50%) (Dematte et al, 2011).…”

The Burn Wound Microenvironment

“…94 In a separate study, patients with whole-face scarring were treated with tretinoin alone, and measures of skin quality showed decreased resistance and increased elastance. 95 Interestingly, there were no obvious differences in total protein content or histology noted between treated and nontreated individuals, making it difficult to assess how the treatment altered the wound healing process.…”

Effect of low-intensity therapeutic ultrasound on wound healing in rats subjected to third-degree burns

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