Lyophilized Extract from Larvae of the Blowfly Lucilia sericata as a New Strategy for the Management of Chronic Wounds

Background: Chronic wounds represent a growing challenge in the aging population, significantly impairing quality of life, increasing the frequency of medical consultations, and imposing substantial healthcare costs. Chronic wounds are prone to complications, including local and systemic infections, and in severe cases, amputations. The therapeutic use of live larvae from the blowfly Lucilia sericata (biological debridement) has regained attention for its ability to debride necrotic tissue and stimulate granulation. Despite its benefits, this therapy is constrained by logistical challenges in producing and delivering live larvae and by patient adherence issues. Objectives: This study aimed to develop a lyophilized extract of Lucilia sericata larvae and evaluate its efficacy in treating chronic wounds. Methods: A lyophilized extract (Larveel®, Alpha-Biocare GmbH, Neuss, Germany) of the larvae of Lucilia sericata was produced under GMP conditions. In a total of ten patients with chronic refractory wounds the extract was used in individual therapeutic trials and its effect on bacterial colonization and wound healing was investigated. Results: Of ten patients, three discontinued treatment due to P. aeruginosa colonization. In seven patients, significant fibrin reduction, granulation, and wound healing occurred, with two achieving complete closure and four showing advanced epithelialization. Conclusions: In 7 of 10 patients, the application of the extract led to a marked reduction in wound slough, improved granulation, and progression of wound healing. These effects are likely attributed to the extract’s ability to disrupt bacterial biofilm formation. The findings suggest that this novel therapeutic approach may provide a practical and effective alternative to live larval therapy for managing chronic wounds.