Catalytic Nanomedicine. Cu/TiO2–SiO2 Nanoparticles as Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Case Report

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is one of the most important health issues worldwide. The rising incidence of the disease has resulted in a parallel increase of complications such as diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). It is estimated that 25% of patients with diabetes will develop foot ulcers over a lifetime. In Mexico, this lifetime incidence is about 40% to 50%, and 20% of the cases will require amputations. DFU can result in staggering financial burdens for the healthcare system and the patient. Therapies that promote rapid and complete healing and reduce the need for expensive surgical procedures would impact these costs substantially. Methods: Cu/TiO2–SiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by T. López et al. sol-gel patented method. After synthesis, they were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction. Then, they were embedded in a polymeric gel matrix. The Cu/TiO2–SiO2 nanogel was used as conservative therapy for a chronic non-healing DFU on a 62-year old female with several comorbidities and chronic complications of diabetes. Wound debridement was performed prior to nanogel administration. The nanogel was applied over the ulcer on alternate days for an initial period of 2 weeks and then continued for 10 months. Results: Significant improvement was observed in the wound healing process since the first applications. The infection was limited and tissue regeneration was enhanced until complete healing of the ulcer. Conclusion: Cu/TiO2–SiO2 nanogel therapy enhanced reepithelialization and healing of the DFU. The successful outcome allowed to avoid the amputation that was proposed for the patient.