Preliminary Efficacy Testing of the Disinfectant MicrobeCare XLP for Potential Use in Military Operational...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Antimicrobial coatings
• Surface science

Background:

• A permanently bonded, long-lasting antiseptic without post-exposure bioload reduction is needed, especially in resource-limited military settings.
• MicrobeCare XLP is a spray-on agent claimed to form a covalent antimicrobial coating.
• This study evaluated its efficacy without post-exposure bioload reduction, simulating operational conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of MicrobeCare XLP as a long-lasting antimicrobial coating.
• To determine if the product meets efficacy standards without post-exposure bioload reduction.
• To gather baseline data for potential military utilization.

Main Methods:

• Autoclaved surgical forceps were treated with MicrobeCare XLP.
• Treated and control forceps were contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii.
• Bacterial reduction was quantified after submersion in saline, excluding post-exposure bioload reduction steps.

Main Results:

• MicrobeCare XLP met ASTM International passing criteria for Acinetobacter baumannii, showing a statistically significant reduction (p=0.008).
• For Staphylococcus aureus, MicrobeCare XLP did not meet ASTM criteria, with no statistically significant difference between treated and control forceps (p=0.109).
• The antimicrobial coating's effectiveness varied between bacterial species.

Conclusions:

• MicrobeCare XLP effectively inhibited Acinetobacter baumannii but showed unpredictable results against Staphylococcus aureus.
• The study suggests potential limitations related to bacterial properties or autoclave sterilization, despite manufacturer claims.
• Further investigation with more microorganisms and varied conditions is recommended.