The efficacy of topical adipose mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium versus framycetin gauze dressing in chronic plantar ulcer of leprosy: A randomized controlled trial

Background: Wound healing shows a unique interaction of several cells, growth factors and cytokines. The healing of chronic plantar ulcer of leprosy is influenced by various factors, one of which is the concentration of growth factors and cytokines related to the pathogenesis of impaired wound healing. Growth factors and cytokines can be found in the secretome of adipose mesenchymal stem cells. Aim: To compare the effectiveness of topical adipose mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium and framycetin gauze dressing only on the healing of chronic plantar ulcer of leprosy. Methods: In this randomised controlled trial, 32 patients with chronic plantar ulcer of leprosy were recruited. After detailed clinical and initial debridement, patients were randomised to two groups to receive either topical adipose mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (n = 16) or framycetin gauze dressing only (n = 16) applied every three days for up to eight weeks, following which the ulcer size, adverse reactions and complications if any were monitored weekly. Results: Healing percentage increased each week in all groups. Statistical differences between groups (P < 0.05) were observed from week 2 onwards for ulcer mean size reduction and from week 3 onwards for ulcer mean depth reduction. There were no adverse reactions or complications. Limitations: Off-loading on subjects were not performed. Conclusion: Adipose mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium is a potential therapeutic agent in the management of chronic plantar ulcer of leprosy.