Platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of chronic rectal ulcer: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: Rectum ulcer is a disease of the digestive system, the main symptoms of which includes bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, hematochezia, etc. At present, drug therapy and surgery are the most common treatments. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains high concentrations of platelets and has been used to promote wound healing. However, the utilization of PRP in rectal ulcers has rarely been reported. Patient concerns: The patient had reported a complaint of blood dripping from the stool for more than 4 months. She had a history of surgery for rectal cancer with postoperative chemotherapy and radiotherapy 19 years prior. Mesalazine suppository was given to her for about 4 months, and glutamine capsules for 2 months, but the rectal ulcer remained unhealed. Diagnosis: A rectal ulcer was observed on colonoscopy, and the biopsy result was tubular adenoma. Interventions: Autologous PRP treatment was performed for the patient under an anorectal scope together with basic supportive care. Outcomes: The ulcer nearly healed within 9 days after twice PRP treatments. Lessons: PRP treatment may bring about novel treatment options for rectal ulcers.