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Endothelial cell toxicity in leg ulcers treated with topical hyperbaric oxygen
The American Journal of Dermatopathology
|October 1, 1986
Summary
Prolonged hyperbaric oxygen therapy for leg ulcers can cause endothelial cell toxicity, evidenced by clinical and microscopic changes. These effects are reversible upon discontinuing the treatment.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Hyperbaric Medicine
Background:
- Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy is used for chronic wounds like leg ulcers.
- Potential cellular side effects of prolonged HBO treatment require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical and ultrastructural effects of prolonged hyperbaric oxygen therapy on endothelial cells in patients with leg ulcers.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation of granulation tissue in leg ulcer patients undergoing prolonged HBO therapy.
- Light microscopy to assess vascularity.
- Electron microscopy to examine endothelial cell morphology.
Main Results:
- Clinical signs included depressed white areas in granulation tissue, correlating with reduced vascularity.
- Electron microscopy revealed endothelial cells with serrated nuclear membranes and damaged mitochondria.
- These toxic changes were observed in all patients receiving at least 8 weeks of HBO, even with intermittent regimens.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged hyperbaric oxygen therapy can induce endothelial cell toxicity in patients with leg ulcers.
- The observed cellular changes are reversible within 1-2 weeks after HBO cessation.
- This highlights the importance of monitoring endothelial health during extended HBO treatments.