Recessive epidermolysis bullosa dystrophicans (Hallopeau-Siemens)--improvement of wound healing by autologous epidermal grafts on an esterified hyaluronic acid membrane.

Epidermolysis bullosa dystropicans of the Hallopeau-Siemens type (HS-EBD) is an autosomal-recessive blistering disease. Skin fragility due to mutations in structural proteins is responsible for further development of chronic and painful wounds, skin infections and sepsis. There is no causative treatment available. We present a case report with HS-EBD and longstanding painful wounds treated with autologous keratinocytes on an esterified hyaluronic acid membrane. Two out of three wounds treated showed a complete take of the graft. They improved markedly with a stable result over 12 months until now. Even autologous keratinocyte grafting may have a beneficial effect on chronic wounds in HS-EBD despite the fact that the genetic defects are unchanged.