Observations on changes of serum epidermal growth factor levels in patients with fracture

Objective: To investigate the clinical significance of changes of serum epidermal growth factor(EGF) levels in patients with fracture. Methods: Serum EGF levels were detemined with RIA in 70 patients with fracture and 30 controls. Results: Serum EGF levels were significantly higher in patients with fracture than those in the controls. Among the Patients, serum EGF levels were significantly higher in subjects under 40 years (n=33) than those in patients over 40 years (n=37). There were no statistical differences between EGF levels in male (n=44) and female patients (n=26). Conclusion: The levels of serum EGF levels might be closely related to the potential capability of fracture healing (better in younger subjects). (authors)