Topical mucopolysaccharide polysulfate (MPS) in the treatment of thrombophlebitis – A critical review

Abstract

Summary: Mucopolysaccharide polysulfate (MPS) is a semi-synthetic glycosaminoglycan with a mean molecular mass of 9700 with multifold actions. MPS has various effects on blood coagulation, fibrinolysis and platelet function. Recently it has been shown in primates that MPS containing cream increases the release of tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) after topical application. Furthermore, MPS has proven to exert anti-inflammatory effects and metabolically interacts with the connective tissue. Animal studies and pharmacological investigations in humans have shown that, after topical administration of the MPS, subcutaneous haematomata and infiltrates are absorbed faster and superficial thrombi are dissolved more rapidly when compared to placebo or non-active treatment. In addition, an antiphlogistic effect was demonstrated in various experimental inflammation models.MPS containing cream has been used since several decades for the topical treatment of superficial thrombophlebitis, haematomata, and sports injuries. Although the first clinical experiences with MPS were empirical the objective evidence of the beneficial effects of such treatment has later been demonstrated in well designed placebo controlled double-blind trials. These studies have shown that per-cutaneous administration of MPS cream leads to significantly faster regression of acute superficial thrombophlebitis and of haematomas as well as significant promotion of the healing of inflammatory lesions in comparison to placebo.