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Comparative antibacterial activity of topical antiseptic eardrops against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Cha Kyung Youn1, Sook-Jin Jang2, Eu-Ri Jo3

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Chosun University School of Medicine, Gwangju, South Korea; Division of Natural Medical Science, Chosun University, Gwangju, South Korea.

International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|June 1, 2016
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Burow's solution demonstrates superior antimicrobial activity against common ear infection bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Diluting Burow's solution twofold is recommended to prevent ototoxicity while maintaining efficacy.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Otolaryngology

Background:

  • Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) presents a growing challenge due to increasing antibiotic resistance.
  • Antiseptic aural irrigation is a potential treatment for CSOM, especially in cases of resistant infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of various antiseptic solutions against key bacterial pathogens.
  • To evaluate Burow's solution, acetic acid, vinegar, and boric acid against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA), quinolone-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (QRPA), and quinolone-susceptible P. aeruginosa (QSPA).

Main Methods:

  • Antimicrobial activity was assessed by measuring the percentage of surviving microorganisms after exposure to each solution.
  • The time required to inactivate 90% of the microbial population (D10 value) was determined for each antiseptic.
  • Five solutions were tested: 100% Burow's solution, 50% Burow's solution, 2% acetic acid, vinegar with water (1:1), and 4% boric acid solution.

Main Results:

  • Burow's solution exhibited the most potent antimicrobial activity, characterized by the lowest D10 values against all tested bacterial strains.
  • The antimicrobial efficacy ranking was: Burow's solution > 2% acetic acid > vinegar with water (1:1) > 4% boric acid solution.
  • All tested solutions showed some level of antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including resistant strains.

Conclusions:

  • Burow's solution demonstrates significant potential as a topical antimicrobial agent for treating CSOM, particularly against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
  • A twofold dilution of Burow's solution is advised to mitigate potential ototoxicity while preserving its antimicrobial effectiveness.
  • Further clinical studies are warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety of diluted Burow's solution in managing CSOM.
Keywords:
Anti-infective agentsMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureusOtitis mediaQuinolone-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa

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