Undesirable Effects of Some Topical Antiseptics Chemical, pharmacological and dermatological aspects

Abstract

Topical antiseptics are a diverse group of agents that are widely used in medicine for the antimicrobial properties. Despite their long history and broad application, caution must be exercised in their use, especially in the pediatric age group, as various cutaneous reactions ranging from hypersensitivity to urticarial to skin necrosis have been reported. The use of topical antiseptics in pediatrics has also been associated with systemic reactions, which depend on the antiseptic in question. Antiseptics such as chlorhexidine, povidon iodine, methylene blue, gentian violet, silver nitrate, boric acid, Castellani solution, alcohol and chloramines have been reviewed. It is essential that physicians bear in mind the possible adverse effects that may follow topical antiseptic use, as this facilitates prevention and also timely intervention if, and when, they occur.

Crystal Violet-Impregnated Slippery Surface to Prevent Bacterial Contamination of Surfaces

“…CV has been extensively used to prevent viral, bacterial, and fungal infections in medicine for over 100 years . It is known that CV inhibits bacterial growth through an interaction between positive ion (CV + ) dissociated from CV and bacterial membrane or DNA. , Bactericidal activity of CVIS in dark indicates that CV maintains some intrinsic bactericidal activity after impregnation into the slippery surface. In white light, the reductions in the number of E.…”

“…39 It is known that CV inhibits bacterial growth through an interaction between positive ion (CV + ) dissociated from CV and bacterial membrane or DNA. 39,40 Bactericidal activity of CVIS in dark indicates that CV maintains some intrinsic bactericidal activity after impregnation into the slippery surface. In white light, the reductions in the number of E. coli and S. aureus reached to levels below the detection limit (∼10 3 CFU/mL) after 3 and 2 h incubations, respectively, indicating >3 log reduction in the number of bacteria (99.9% kill).…”

Role of Silver Nitrate Spray for Skin Wound Care in Patients with Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: Our Experience in 4 Patients

“…Topical silver nitrate has been proved to be a safe and effective therapy in a multi-center study assessing its efficacy in burns [23]. Silver nitrate possesses cauterizing and wound healing properties, with a low risk of functional disorders and lasting tissue damage [24,25].…”