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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
[Detection of external contamination of methotrexate vials in an Argentine hospital]
1Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Pediátrico Dr. H. Notti, Mendoza, Argentina. fabianaiglesias@speedy.com.ar
Objective:
To quantify external contamination of methotrexate vials and alert about occupational health hazards.
Method:
All 50 mg and 500 mg methotrexate vials were opened and cleaned with an alcohol wet white wipe in February 2005. The vials were divided in two groups according to visual external contamination or not. The air tightness of the vials was stated.
Results:
9.33% methotrexate vials were contaminated under visual inspection. Two of five manufacturers presented contaminated vials. The proportion of contaminated vials in the two former manufacturers was 18.8 and 21.43%.
Conclusions:
External contamination would be due to manufacture processes. Cutaneous absorption is very important because of the contamination founded. It s strongly recommended that all personal involved in cytotoxic handling take protection measures.
Insights
Methotrexate vials showed external contamination, indicating potential occupational health risks for healthcare workers. Protective measures are crucial during handling due to possible cutaneous absorption.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Science
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Environmental Contamination
Context:
- Methotrexate is a widely used chemotherapy agent.
- External contamination of pharmaceutical vials poses risks to healthcare professionals.
- Manufacturing processes can influence vial integrity and safety.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of external contamination on methotrexate vials.
- To assess potential occupational health hazards associated with contaminated vials.
- To identify manufacturers with contaminated products.
Summary:
- A study examining methotrexate vials found external contamination in 9.33% of samples.
- Contamination was linked to specific manufacturers, with rates of 18.8% and 21.43% in two identified sources.
- Vial air tightness was confirmed, suggesting contamination occurred during or after manufacturing.
Impact:
- Highlights the risk of cutaneous absorption for healthcare workers handling contaminated methotrexate.
- Underscores the need for enhanced manufacturing quality control to prevent vial contamination.
- Recommends stringent protective measures for all personnel involved in cytotoxic drug handling.
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