Pilot study on the effect of autologous activated platelet-rich plasma on diabetic foot ulcer wound healing and serum HbA1c levels

Abstract

Context: Autologous activated platelet-rich plasma (aaPRP) is a platelet-based therapy with high concentrations of growth factors that enhance the process of wound healing and glucose normalization. Aims: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of systemic and local administration of autologous activated platelet-rich plasma in diabetic foot ulcer wound healing and patients’ serum hemoglobin A1C. Methods: Ten subjects were equally randomized to placebo and aaPRP treatment. The aaPRP was administered locally and intravenously. Wound surface area and serum HbA1c levels were recorded on days 0, 7, and 14. Results: Injection of aaPRP for two weeks shows better clinical outcomes in reducing wound surface area non-significantly (40.11 ± 43.22 vs. -8.29 ± 49%; p = 0.136) and serum HbA1c levels non-significantly compared to the control group (2.16 ± 0.54 vs. 1.64 ± 2.218%; p = 0.635). However, patients in the aaPRP group had significantly better control of HbA1c within the first week of treatment (1.39 ± 0.84 vs. -0.08 ± 0.92; p = 0.030). Conclusions: aaPRP could be considered a potential therapeutic strategy in patients with diabetic foot ulcers.