EPIDERMAL GROWTH-FACTOR IN THE TOPICAL TREATMENT OF HERPETIC CORNEAL ULCERS

The tolerability and efficacy of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in the topical treatment of herpetic corneal ulcers in addition to topical ac yclovir have been evaluated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, ran domized study in two groups of patients. The time required for complet e reepithelialization of the cornea was recorded, and the data obtaine d were analyzed statistically. In the EGF group, the reepithelializati on was significantly faster than in the control group. Tolerability of EGF was always excellent. These results indicate that EGF is safe and effective in reducing the healing time of herpetic corneal ulcers.