Effect of Croton lechleri sap-based topical treatment, with or without nitroglycerin, on healing of equine metatarsal skin wounds

Skin wounds in horses, particularly in the distal extremities, often heal slowly due to mechanical stress, compromised perfusion, and excessive fibroplasia. This study evaluated the effects of topical Croton lechleri (CL) cream, alone or in combination with nitroglycerin, on the healing of skin wounds in the metatarsal region of horses. Six mares received six standardized wounds in each region and were treated with: saline solution, nitroglycerin (0.1 or 1 mg/mL), CL (1 or 10 µg/mL), or CL + nitroglycerin (10 µg/mL + 1 mg/mL). Wound contraction, histology, and bacterial culture were evaluated. Wounds treated with CL demonstrated increased collagen deposition and reduced angiogenesis over time. Nitroglycerin reduced vessel count over time in metatarsal wounds but did not significantly alter contraction. In conclusion, Croton lechleri appears to aid in tissue repair by modulating collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and inflammation.