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The use of granulocyte colony stimulating factor to promote wound healing in a neutropenic patient after head and neck surgery
Author(s) -
Cody D. Thane,
Funk Gerry F.,
Wagner David,
Gidley Paul W.,
Graham Scott M.,
Hoffman Henry T.
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
head and neck
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.012
H-Index - 127
eISSN - 1097-0347
pISSN - 1043-3074
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1097-0347(199903)21:2<172::aid-hed13>3.0.co;2-1
Subject(s) - medicine , neutropenia , surgery , laryngectomy , head and neck cancer , granulocyte colony stimulating factor , wound healing , mucositis , radiation therapy , chemotherapy , larynx
Background Neutropenia and neutrophil dysfunction, in association with a variety of diseases, has been shown to play a role in poor wound healing. Wound breakdown with fistula formation in patients undergoing total laryngectomy results in significant morbidity and increased hospital stay. Although malnutrition, prior radiation, diabetes, and other diseases are recognized as factors predisposing patients with head and neck cancer to developing fistulas, neutrophil dysfunction should also be considered. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF) has been used successfully to treat neutropenia and neutrophil dysfunction. Methods This study was conducted as a case report. Results We present the first report of a neutropenic head and neck cancer patient with a persistent wound of 6 months' duration who showed dramatic improvement after treatment with G‐CSF. Conclusion We conclude that G‐CSF may represent a useful adjunct in patients with persistent wound healing problems and neutropenia despite adequate treatment by conventional means. Further clinical experience with G‐CSF in patients with delayed healing is indicated. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Head Neck 21: 172–175, 1999.