Transplantation of Autologous Single Hair Units Heals Chronic Wounds in Autosomal Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa: A Proof-of-Concept Study

This study demonstrated the potential of using autologous single hair follicular unit extraction (FUE) grafting to heal chronic wounds in a 54-year-old woman with intermediate autosomal recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). The patient had extensive chronic wounds covering about 30% of her body. After the first graft session, the treated ulcer area on her back was reduced by 80% within 17 days. Over five years, 360 FUEs were grafted in nine sessions, leading to significant healing of most ulcers and reducing the time needed for daily wound dressing. The procedure was simple, safe, and did not require laboratory manipulation, suggesting it could be an innovative solution for non-healing ulcers in RDEB patients. However, the findings were based on a single case, indicating the need for further studies to confirm these results.