Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa: a comprehensive review of therapeutic strategies and the role of skin grafting in wound management and tissue regeneration

Sánchez Gómez Jessica; Lizeth Montelongo Cedillo; Jorge Daniel Velázquez López; Emanuel Chew Bonilla; Roberto Hernández Hernández

doi:10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20253207

Authors

Sánchez Gómez Jessica Escuela Superior de Medicina. Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico
Lizeth Montelongo Cedillo Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado. Hospital General Santiago Ramón y Cajal. Universidad Juárez del estado de Durango, Durango, Mexico
Jorge Daniel Velázquez López Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. Ciudad Universitaria, México
Emanuel Chew Bonilla Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Mexico
Roberto Hernández Hernández Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20253207

Keywords:

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, COL7A1 mutations, Skin grafting, Autologous grafts, Allogeneic grafts, Bioengineered skin substitutes

Abstract

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is a severe inherited disorder caused by COL7A1 mutations, leading to deficient type VII collagen (COL7), chronic wounds, and fibrosis. Skin grafting-autologous, allogeneic, or bioengineered-offers potential for wound stabilization. This review evaluates grafting efficacy, limitations, and future directions. A systematic literature analysis (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane) highlighted clinical trials and mechanistic studies. Autologous grafts reduce wound burden but face donor-site fragility; allogeneic grafts provide temporary coverage but risk rejection. Bioengineered substitutes (e.g., gene-corrected autografts) show promise for COL7A1 restoration. While grafting remains palliative, gene-edited (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9) and tissue-engineered approaches may transform DEB care, necessitating multicenter trials for protocol standardization.

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