Intraperitoneal povidone-iodine in experimental peritonitis.

Area of Science:

• Experimental medicine
• Toxicology

Background:

• Peritonitis is a serious abdominal infection.
• Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic agent with varying reported efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of intraperitoneal povidone-iodine in experimental peritonitis models.

Main Methods:

• Two experimental peritonitis models were used.
• Toxicity studies were conducted in normal and peritonitis-affected animals.
• Mortality rates in povidone-iodine treated groups were recorded.

Main Results:

• 100% mortality was observed in both peritonitis models treated with intraperitoneal povidone-iodine.
• A previously non-toxic dose (2.0 ml/kg) was fatal in animals with peritonitis.
• Higher doses (>4.0 ml/kg) were fatal even in normal animals.

Conclusions:

• Intraperitoneal povidone-iodine administration is fatal in peritonitis.
• The mechanism of increased toxicity in peritonitis is unclear.
• Intraperitoneal povidone-iodine is not recommended for peritonitis therapy.