In vitro analyses of ethanol activity against Candida albicans biofilms

Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2012 Aug;56(8):4487-9. doi: 10.1128/AAC.00263-12. Epub 2012 May 21.

Abstract

Candida albicans is a common cause of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CR-BSI). Ethanol (EtOH) lock therapy has been attempted despite limited data on optimal dose and duration. Concentrations of 35% EtOH or higher for a minimum of 4 h demonstrated a >99% reduction in mature C. albicans biofilm metabolic activity and prevented regrowth. Concentrations of 10% EtOH or higher reduced C. albicans biofilm formation by >99%. Further investigation of EtOH lock therapy for treatment and prevention of C. albicans CR-BSI is warranted.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local / pharmacology*
  • Biofilms / drug effects*
  • Biofilms / growth & development
  • Candida albicans / drug effects*
  • Candida albicans / growth & development
  • Catheter-Related Infections / drug therapy
  • Catheter-Related Infections / microbiology
  • Catheters / microbiology
  • Ethanol / pharmacology*
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local
  • Ethanol