Fibroblast cytotoxicity and blood cell integrity following exposure to dermal wound cleansers

Cellular toxicity of dermal wound cleansers may be an important consideration in wound healing. To study the effects of dermal wound cleansers on wound closure, human fibroblasts were cultured and survival rates were established. Cellular integrity of both red and white blood cells was established by quantifying the number of intact cells using a hemocytometer. In addition, the concentration of hemoglobin in plasma was determined. All tests were conducted against saline controls. Cellular viability and function in each experiment were used to rank solutions according to the cytotoxic effects demonstrated. Significant differences were found in the toxicity profile of available cleansers. Cellular toxicity of dermal wound cleansers is an important consideration in wound healing. Initial steps in wound management should not undermine subsequent phases in wound healing.