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Published on: February 14, 2018
The efficacy of antifungal agents incorporated into a facial prosthetic silicone elastomer
M A Pigno1, M C Goldschmidt, J C Lemon
1Department of Dental Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston.
Abstract:
Microbiologic isolation techniques and scanning electron microscopy were used to determine whether a fungus is associated with the black discoloration of some silicone nasal prostheses. Colonies of fungal growth were seen on scanning electron micrographs of the affected areas of a nasal prosthesis, and a fungus belonging to the genus Penicillium was isolated from similar areas. Disk diffusion tests determined that the antifungal agent clotrimazole, when incorporated into silicone samples, was effective in inhibiting in vitro growth of the fungus.
Insights
A fungus, Penicillium, was identified as the cause of black discoloration on silicone nasal prostheses. Clotrimazole effectively inhibited fungal growth in laboratory tests, suggesting a potential treatment for affected prostheses.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Biomaterials Science
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Silicone nasal prostheses are used in reconstructive surgery.
- Black discoloration has been observed on some silicone nasal prostheses.
- The etiology of this discoloration is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association of fungus with the black discoloration of silicone nasal prostheses.
- To identify the specific fungus involved.
- To evaluate the efficacy of clotrimazole as an antifungal agent against the isolated fungus.
Main Methods:
- Microbiologic isolation techniques were employed to culture microorganisms from discolored prostheses.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to visualize fungal colonies on prosthesis surfaces.
- Disk diffusion tests were performed to assess the in vitro antifungal activity of clotrimazole incorporated into silicone.
Main Results:
- Fungal growth colonies were observed on SEM images of affected nasal prostheses.
- A fungus belonging to the genus Penicillium was successfully isolated from the discolored areas.
- Clotrimazole demonstrated in vitro efficacy in inhibiting the growth of the isolated Penicillium fungus when incorporated into silicone.
Conclusions:
- Fungal contamination, specifically by Penicillium, is associated with the black discoloration of silicone nasal prostheses.
- The antifungal agent clotrimazole shows promise for preventing or treating fungal growth on these medical devices.
- Further research may explore the clinical application of clotrimazole in managing fungal issues with nasal prostheses.
