Efficacy of topical silver against fungal burn wound pathogens

Background: Fungal infections of burn wounds have become an important cause of burn-associated morbidity and mortality. The nature of fungal infections dictates aggressive treatment to minimize the morbidity associated with these infections. Persons with large total body surface area bums are particularly susceptible to fungal infections and are treated in such a manner as to minimize their risk of infection. Methods: This study examined the in vitro fungicidal efficacy of a variety of different topical agents. By placing fungal inocula in contact with mafenide acetate, silver nitrate, silver sulfadiazine, and a nanocrystalline silver-coated dressing, we determined the kill kinetics of these topical agents against a spectrum of common burn wound fungal pathogens. Results: The topical antimicrobials that were tested demonstrated varying degrees of efficacy against these pathogens. Conclusion: The nanocrystalline silver-based dressing provided the fastest and brondest-spectrum fungicidal activity and may make it a good candidate for use to minimize the potential of fungal infection, thereby reducing complications that delay wound healing.