The Effect of GM-CSF on the Inhibition of Contraction of Excisional Wounds Caused by Bacterial Contamination
Bacterial contamination of open wounds significantly inhibits the wound contraction required in the healing process. Substances that enhance inflammatory capacity may aid in eliminating bacterial burden in the wound, thus improving the contraction process. This study was designed to determine the effect of GM-CSF (granulocyte/macrophage-colony stimulating factor) on wound contraction inhibition in an area contaminated with bacterial overgrowth. The topically applied GM-CSF reversed inhibition to wound contraction that normally occurs with bacterial contamination. The treated wounds showed no increase in breaking strength. The use of GM-CSF decreased the number of days required for wound healing despite active bacterial invasion and can be of value in the treatment of human contaminated wounds.
