Polyhexanide-containing solution reduces ciliary beat frequency of human nasal epithelial cells in vitro.

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)
• Microbiology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Polyhexanide solutions are used for nasal infections, particularly those caused by multiresistant bacteria.
• Data on the impact of polyhexanide on ciliary beat frequency (CBF) in nasal tissues are limited.
• Nasal ciliary function is crucial for mucociliary clearance and respiratory health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of a polyhexanide-containing nasal solution (Lavasept Concentrate) on the ciliary beat frequency (CBF) of human nasal ciliated epithelial cells.
• To determine the concentration- and time-dependent effects of Lavasept on CBF.
• To provide data to guide the safe use of polyhexanide nasal solutions in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Human nasal ciliated epithelial cells were exposed to varying concentrations of Lavasept Concentrate (0.01%, 0.02%, 0.04%, 0.1%).
• Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) was measured using phase contrast microscopy and the SAVA system's region of interest method.
• Ringer's solution and macrogol were used as negative controls.

Main Results:

• Therapeutic concentrations of Lavasept (0.04% and 0.02%) significantly reduced nasal CBF in a time- and concentration-dependent manner.
• A 0.04% concentration of Lavasept reduced CBF from 8.90 ± 1.64 to 5.00 ± 3.72 Hz within 1 minute (p=0.001).
• Complete cessation of ciliary beating was observed after 10 minutes at 0.04% and after 5 minutes at 0.02% concentration.

Conclusions:

• Polyhexanide-containing solutions, specifically Lavasept, can significantly impair ciliary beat frequency in human nasal epithelia at certain therapeutic concentrations.
• The use of Lavasept on ciliated mucosa should be approached with caution, particularly at concentrations of 0.04%.
• A concentration of 0.02% may be considered safer, but its impact still warrants careful clinical consideration.