Platelet Rich Plasma Treats Nerve Damage in Leprosy Patients:
December 22, 2013
Leprosy is a rare disease caused by an infection from bacteria known as Mycobacterium Leprae. It is characterized by skin and nerve degeneration that can lead to severe skin deformities and nerve damage. Regrowing or repairing nerves once they have been damaged has proven to be a difficult task, and researchers believe Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) may hold the secret to promoting growth. It has long been known that growth factors in the blood promote regeneration of cells in the body, including nerves, and Platelet Rich Plasma contains a concentrated form of these growth factors. It is thought that by injecting PRP into nerves, it can promote nerve regeneration and increase sensation.
A new study published out of Hasanuddin University in Indonesia examined the use of PRP for nerve regrowth in patients suffering from Leprosy. Patients were injected with either PRP or another substance without growth factors, and the results showed PRP to be more beneficial in restoring sensation. The results reveal another example of the vast regenerative potential of PRP. Although further research is needed to examine the effectiveness of PRP on nerve regeneration, the results provide promising evidence for another application of PRP therapy in the future.
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