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Growth of micro-organisms in solutions of intravenous anaesthetic agents
C B Berry1, T Gillespie, J Hood
1Glasgow Royal Infirmary.
Abstract:
This controlled bench study compared the growth of bacteria and yeast in solutions of commonly used intravenous anaesthetic agents at room and body temperatures. Drugs presented in aqueous emulsions support both bacterial and fungal growth. Five out of the six solutions supported the growth of yeast. The one exception was chlormethiazole, which is both fungicidal and bactericidal. Solutions of drugs which will support growth of micro-organisms should be used with great care and they should not be stored or infused over prolonged periods.
Insights
Common intravenous anesthetic agents in emulsion can support microbial growth, including bacteria and yeast. Chlormethiazole was the only agent found to inhibit both, highlighting risks with prolonged use of other anesthetics.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmaceutical Science
Background:
- Intravenous anesthetic agents are widely used in clinical settings.
- The potential for microbial contamination and growth in anesthetic solutions is a critical concern for patient safety.
- Aqueous emulsions of certain anesthetic drugs may provide a medium for microbial proliferation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the growth of bacteria and yeast in common intravenous anesthetic agent solutions.
- To evaluate the impact of temperature (room vs. body) on microbial growth in these solutions.
- To identify anesthetic agents that may inhibit or promote microbial proliferation.
Main Methods:
- Controlled laboratory study.
- Incubation of six common intravenous anesthetic agent solutions.
- Inoculation with bacteria and yeast.
- Incubation at room temperature and body temperature (37°C).
- Assessment of microbial growth.
Main Results:
- Five of the six tested anesthetic solutions supported the growth of yeast.
- Bacterial and fungal growth were observed in drug solutions presented as aqueous emulsions.
- Chlormethiazole was the only agent that demonstrated both fungicidal and bactericidal properties, inhibiting growth.
- Microbial growth occurred at both room and body temperatures.
Conclusions:
- Solutions of intravenous anesthetic agents, particularly those in aqueous emulsions, can support significant bacterial and yeast growth.
- Chlormethiazole exhibits antimicrobial properties, unlike the other agents studied.
- Caution is advised when storing or infusing anesthetic solutions that support microbial growth over extended periods to prevent healthcare-associated infections.