Nile tilapia skin (Oreochromis niloticus) as a biological dressing in the treatment of burns

Case report

Abstract

Introduction: Burns are most often caused by thermal, chemical, electrical or radioactive agents, which are difficult to handle. In this context, the use of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) skin for medical treatment of superficial and deep second-degree burns has been shown to be a new option. Case report: SMFFC, female, 22 year-old presented with superficial and deep second degree burns on the dorsum of the left foot, with 56 cm2 (cm²) of extension. The patient received tilapia skin dressing. She was discharged and returning to normal activities in seven days, with full recovery of the full range of motor activity of the affected area. There were no complications at follow-up. Comments: The tilapia skin adheres to the dermis of the human ski , occluding the nerve endings, promoting an instant improvement of the pain. The skin dermis of the fish is composed of organized bundles of dense collagen fibers, allowing tensile strength, good moisture and reduced healing time. This is one of the few cases reported in the literature on the use of tilapia skin as a biological dressing for the treatment of human burns. This alternative may, in addition to reducing pain and healing time of wounds, reduce costs and mitigate possible complications, especially infections