New therapeutics for the prevention and reduction of scarring

Published literature shows that both physicians and patients are highly concerned about scarring and value even small improvements in scar appearance. Both severe and relatively minor scars can have a significant psychological impact on patients, irrespective of whether or not they are hidden by clothing. There is no universal standard of care for scarring and, currently, no marketed pharmaceuticals for the prophylactic reduction of scarring. Novel approaches are under development, with the furthest progressed being avotermin (Juvista; transforming growth factor beta 3). The scar-improvement efficacy of this agent, administered at the time of surgery, has been demonstrated in robust, well-controlled, randomized human studies. Avotermin and other agents in development represent a new class of prophylactic medicines promoting the regeneration of normal skin and improving scar appearance.