Plasma rich in growth factors as a potential therapeutic candidate for treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis.

Despite high prevalence of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), the treatment is mainly symptomatic. Considering epithelial implantation etiology of RAS, a novel therapeutic approach was presented. Plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) contains various active ingredients including but not limited to transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and fibrin products. PDGF accelerated the healing of ulcers. Moreover, it enhances epithelial-mesenchymal transition and hence aids in elimination of epithelial nests within underlying connective tissue. In addition, it modulated extracellular matrix and contributes to restoration of original tissue structure and function. Anti-inflammatory properties of PRGF in combination with the aforementioned scenario may prove useful both for resolution of acute periods of RAS as well as prevention of recurrent periods of the disease.