A new network meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Endocrinology has found that certain growth factors (GFs), especially epidermal growth factor (EGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), significantly improve the healing of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) compared to standard care. These findings provide updated insights into the most effective biological therapies for this serious diabetes-related complication.

Researchers analyzed data from 51 randomized controlled trials involving 3,401 patients. The analysis compared six different GFs used alone or in combination with standard care (SOC), which typically includes wound cleaning, dressings, and pressure offloading.

EGF, PRP, and PDGF were significantly more effective than SOC in improving the healing rate of DFUs. Both EGF and PRP also helped wounds heal more quickly, while PDGF significantly reduced the size of the ulcers. Importantly, PRP was associated with fewer adverse events and the lowest rate of amputations, making it one of the safest options.

When ranking the effectiveness of each treatment, EGF stood out as the top performer in both healing rate and healing time. For reducing ulcer size, PDGF ranked highest, while PRP led in safety outcomes, including fewer adverse events and the lowest amputation rates.

Notably, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been linked to an increased risk of adverse events. In contrast, other GFs, including EGF, PDGF, and PRP, did not increase adverse events compared to SOC.

These results highlight the potential of personalized GF-based therapies to improve outcomes for patients with DFUs, especially those at high risk of complications such as amputations.