Evidence supporting the use of: Growth factors
For the health condition: Eye Infections

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Growth factors, particularly those found in autologous serum eye drops (such as epidermal growth factor, nerve growth factor, and transforming growth factor-beta), have been investigated for their role in supporting the healing of ocular surface injuries and infections. While growth factors are not primary antimicrobial agents and do not directly treat infections, they are used as adjunctive therapy to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing of epithelial defects that can result from severe infections like microbial keratitis or Herpes Simplex Virus keratitis.

Several clinical studies and case series report that topical application of autologous serum, which is rich in growth factors, can enhance re-epithelialization and reduce healing time in patients with persistent corneal epithelial defects, some of which are secondary to infectious causes. However, the evidence base is not robust and consists mostly of small-scale studies, case series, and limited randomized controlled trials. The primary rationale for their use is to mimic the natural tear film and provide bioactive molecules necessary for corneal healing, especially in cases where the ocular surface is compromised.

In summary, while growth factors are not direct treatments for eye infections, their use as supportive therapy in managing the sequelae of ocular infections is supported by moderate scientific evidence. Their application should be considered adjunctive, not as a replacement for standard antimicrobial therapy.

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