Losartan ointment relieves hypertrophic scars and keloid: A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pharmacology
• Fibrosis Research

Background:

• Keloid and hypertrophic scars result from excessive extracellular matrix deposition.
• Angiotensin II, acting through the AT1 receptor, is implicated in stimulating fibrotic processes.
• Understanding the mechanisms behind scar formation is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of losartan potassium ointment in treating keloid and hypertrophic scars.
• To evaluate the impact of losartan on scar characteristics using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS).
• To assess the potential of targeting the angiotensin II pathway for scar management.

Main Methods:

• A pilot, placebo-controlled, single-blind study involving 37 adult volunteers with hypertrophic scars and keloids.
• Participants were randomized to receive either 5% losartan ointment or a placebo, applied twice daily for three months.
• Scar severity was assessed using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) with a subsequent 6-month follow-up period.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions in VSS scores were observed in the losartan group for both keloid and hypertrophic scars (p < 0.01).
• Losartan treatment led to significant improvements in scar vascularity and pliability (p < 0.05).
• Out of 30 analyzed participants, the losartan group (n=20) showed marked scar improvement compared to the placebo group (n=10).

Conclusions:

• Topical losartan potassium ointment (5%) demonstrates a significant therapeutic effect in alleviating keloid and hypertrophic scars.
• The findings suggest that inhibiting the angiotensin II pathway may be a viable strategy for managing fibrotic skin conditions.
• Further research with larger cohorts is warranted to confirm these promising results for scar treatment.