1% ACETIC ACID SOLUTION FOR BURN WOUND CARE

Hajská M., Slobodníková L., Koller J.


Objectives:
The aim of our research was to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy and cytotoxicity of 1% Acetic acid solution (AA1%), which is often used for burn wound care in our burn center.  

Methods:
The antimicrobial efficacy testing was performed on in vitro burn wound models inoculated with of one of 7 multidrug - resistant bacterial strains (P. aeruginosa – 2 strains, S. aureus, S. haemolyticu, E. coli, E. faecalis and  A. baumannii).  All the bacteria were originally isolated form burn wounds of our burn patients. Four different wound models were prepared using modified method by Hammond et al. 1 :
A.	wound 30 min following bacteria inoculation
B.	4 hrs following inoculation
C.	6 hrs following inoculation
D.	24 hrs following inoculation
AA1% solution was applied into the models and its efficacy was observed after 24 hrs.
The cytotoxicity tests were realized in cell and tissue bank laboratory using method by Vittekova et al.2. The effect of AA1% solution on two live cell systems – murine 3T3 cells and dermal fibroblasts was observed. Results obtained were compared with the effect of  control samples (sterile gauze and 20% Sodium dodecyl sulphate).

Results:
AA1% solution showed excellent antimicrobial efficacy in models A,B,C inoculated with bacterial strains both including P. aeruginosa , S. haemolyticus and A. baumannii. However, itn was absolutely ineffective against bacteria in model D. This finding was observed in all the tested bacteria.
As for the cytotoxicity testing, the results obtained were very positive. The effect of AA1% solution on both cell systems was similar than of sterile gauze - no cytotoxicity was observed.

Conclusion:
Topical antimicrobial agents are essential in burn wound care. There is an enormous variety of different products; however their properties may be different. 1% Acetic acid solution could be a cheap and effective alternative thanks to its antimicrobial activity and no cytotoxicity.

1% Acetic Acid solution for burn wound care