Research into new bandaging aims to ease the agony experienced by those living with genetic skin condition Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), commonly referred to as 'butterfly skin'. Scientists at Maynooth University in Ireland are leading research into whether 'spray on, wash off' bandages will be a viable alternative to those currently used, which can cause severe pain when applied and removed. EB, which affects over 500,000 children and adults worldwide including 5,000 in the UK and 300 in Ireland, is caused by the absence of proteins between the skin layers, meaning the skin becomes ultra fragile and blisters at the mildest touch.
In severe cases, such as Recessive Dystrophic EB, bandage changes to protect wounds and prevent blister infection are required every day and can last three to four hours at a time. The two-year study by Maynooth University received co-funding of almost €113,000 from Debra Ireland, an Irish charity supporting those living with EB, and the Irish Research Council (IRC). Its key aim will be to enable scientists to develop a prototype, with the hope of allowing non-abrasive bandages to be sprayed onto the skin.
By placing them under cold water, it is hoped that they will then melt away and be removed painlessly. Bandage changes are a particularly excruciating element of this condition and research of this nature has the potential to make a real difference for people living with EB. We hope its outcome might contribute to improved quality of life for thos.