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In vitro effectiveness of povidone-iodine on Acanthamoeba isolates from human cornea
1Laboratory of Parasitology, Virology Unit, IRCCS, San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
Abstract:
Acanthamoeba keratitis is a severe ocular infection secondary to accidental macro- or microscopic trauma of the cornea. Starting in 1985, a dramatic increase of this infection was recorded along with the spread of contact lens use. This protozoal disease is difficult to treat because of the scarcity of efficacious topical and systemic drugs. We evaluated the in vitro effectiveness of povidone-iodine (PVP-I [Betadine]), an agent with broad antibacterial and antiviral activity, compared to that of chlorhexidine (CXD), a cationic antiseptic, on Acanthamoeba isolates from patients with amebic keratitis. The results showed that PVP-I solution from 0.5 to 2.5% has a better antiamebic activity both on trophic and cystic stages of Acanthamoeba spp. than does CXD.
Insights
Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) demonstrates superior in vitro antiamebic activity against Acanthamoeba keratitis compared to chlorhexidine (CXD). This finding offers a promising therapeutic option for this severe eye infection.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Acanthamoeba keratitis is a severe eye infection linked to contact lens use.
- Treatment options are limited due to drug scarcity.
- Acanthamoeba keratitis poses a significant challenge in ocular health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the in vitro efficacy of povidone-iodine (PVP-I) and chlorhexidine (CXD) against Acanthamoeba isolates.
- To evaluate PVP-I's antiamebic properties for potential therapeutic applications.
Main Methods:
- In vitro evaluation of PVP-I and CXD.
- Testing against Acanthamoeba isolates from patients with amebic keratitis.
- Assessing activity on both trophic and cystic stages of Acanthamoeba.
Main Results:
- PVP-I solutions (0.5-2.5%) exhibited greater antiamebic activity than CXD.
- PVP-I was effective against both trophic and cystic forms of Acanthamoeba.
- PVP-I shows potential as a topical treatment for Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Conclusions:
- Povidone-iodine is a more effective antiamebic agent than chlorhexidine in vitro.
- PVP-I presents a promising therapeutic avenue for managing Acanthamoeba keratitis.
- Further clinical studies are warranted to confirm PVP-I's efficacy in treating patients.