Effect of Curcumin versus Hyaluronic Acid on Glucocorticoid Induced Skin Atrophy and Subsequent Skin Abrasions in Rats

Abstract

Background: Skin is the largest organ of the body in surface area and weight. One of the most important side effects of topical glucocorticoids therapy is skin atrophy. This study aimed to evaluate the possible therapeutic effects of curcumin versus aftamed gel (Hyaluronic Acid) on glucocorticoid-induced skin atrophy, as well as on subsequently induced abrasion wounds. Methods: Forty two adult male albino rats were divided into 4 groups: Group1 (Control group) of 6 rats, Group II (Steroid-Exposed Group), Group III (Curcumin-Treated Group) and Group IV (Aftamed-treated group). Each of group II, III and IV were subdivided into two subgroups IIA, IIIA, IVA (subjected to clobetasol propionate cream) each included 6 rats and IIB, IIIB, IVB (subjected to clobetasol propionate cream, then exposed to skin abrasion) each included 6 rats. Skin biopsies were taken from the dorsum of rats 12th days from the stoppage of clobetasol propionate application. Sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome and immunohistochemichal stain for PCNA & CK19. Epidermal thicknesses, mean area percent of collagen fibers and mean number of PCNA & CK19 immunopositive cells were measured. Results: Steroid-exposed group showed thinning of epidermal and dermal layers with scanty hair follicles and sebaceous glands as well as delay in wound healing. Increased epidermal thickness and reorganized dermal structural elements with increased PCNA & CK19 immunopositive cells were more obvious in curcumin treated group than aftamed treated group. Conclusion: topical application of curcumin had more improving effect on skin and its abrasions rather than aftamed gel.