Antifungal activity of silver nanoparticles and clotrimazole against Candida spp

Abstract The aim of present study was calculate the Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of silver nanoparticles and clotrimazole for Candida species and their interaction by the adaptation of standarized methods. The MICs values of clotrimazole were 9 E-04-3 E-03 ug/ml, 0.1-0.6 ug/ml, 3 E-03- 0.1 ug/ml and 3 E-03-0.3 ug/ml for Candida albicans susceptible to fluconazole, Candida albicans resistance to fluconazole, Candida krusei and Candida parapsilosis respectively. The MICs values of silver nanoparticles were 26.50- 53 ug/ml; 26.50-106 ug/ml; 106-212 ug/ ml and 26.50- 53 ug/ml for Candida albicans susceptible to fluconazole, Candida albicans resistance to fluconazole, Candida krusei and Candida parapsilosis respectively. Synergism between clotrimazole and silver nanoparticles was measured by checkerboard BMD (broth microdilution) test and shown only for C. albicans susceptible to fluconazole because the fractional inhibitory concentrations (FICs) values were 0.07 - 0.15 ug/ml. Indifference was shown for the other species tested because the FICs values were between 0.5 - 2- 3.06 ug/ml. The results suggest synergistic activity depending on the fungus species analysed, however we recommend the incorporation of others measurement methodologies to confirm our results. As for measurement methodologies of MICs of silver nanoparticles and clotrimazole international normative were respected to guarantee reproducible and comparable results.

Comparison of the effect of miconazole and clotrimazole in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis among women seen in a tertiary medical center from 2016 to 2020 / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Background@#Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) is one of the frequent infections of the female genital tract and is the second most common cause of vaginal infections after bacterial vaginosis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, azoles are the first‑line treatment for VVC. Among the azoles available in the Philippines, only miconazole and clotrimazole are recommended for both pregnant and non‑pregnant women.@*Objective@#Compare the effect of miconazole versus clotrimazole in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis among patients seen at the out‑patient department in a tertiary hospital@*Materials and Methods@#This involved review of the records of patients diagnosed with VVC in a tertiary medical center from 2016 to 2020. All records of women, pregnant and non‑pregnant, wherein single‑dose 1200 mg miconazole or 6‑day 100 mg clotrimazole given vaginally were included@*Results@#Eleven out of the 316 records (3.46%) remained symptomatic after treatment, about 18.1% (2/161) from those who used miconazole and 81.8% (9/155) from those treated with clotrimazole (p 0.027). In terms of failure rate, for miconazole it was 1.2% (2/161), whereas for clotrimazole it was 5.8% (9/155). None of the charts were found to have recorded adverse reaction to the given treatment@*Conclusion@#Single‑dose miconazole intravaginal regimen has a higher clinical cure rate than the 6‑day clotrimazole intravaginal treatment. Thereby, single‑dose intravaginal miconazole has the potential to improve patient compliance and treatment outcome at a lower cost

Evaluación de susceptibilidad en cándidas spp por colorimetría obtenida en gestantes de un hospital obstétrico / Susceptibility evaluation in candida spp by colorimetry obtained in pregnant women from an obstetric hospital / Avaliação da suscetibilidade em cândida spp por colorimetria obtida em gestantes de um hospital obstétrico

INTRODUCCIÓN: las infecciones fúngicas ocasionadas por levaduras del género Cándida son extremadamente comunes en mujeres de edad reproductiva, y constituyen un motivo de atención medica de salud. OBJETIVO: evaluar la susceptibilidad de Cándidas spp, mediante el método colorimétrico (Integral Yeast System Plus). MÉTODO: fue de tipo descriptivo, transversal; se recopiló información mediante observación directa en campo y el análisis documental para obtener información bibliográfica de tipo secundaria. RESULTADOS: de los 72 casos encontrados de Cándida Albicans revela que son susceptibles a la anfotericina B (2ug/ml); de los 5 casos encontrados de Cándida Krusei revela que son sensibles a la Anfotericina B (2ug/ml); De 1 caso encontrado de Cándida Parapsilosis revela sensibilidad en la Nistatina (1.25ug/ml). En este estudio la prevalencia de la infección por Cándida fue del (44.98%). CONCLUSIONES: Cándida Albicans fue la especie más común aislada en las mujeres embarazadas representando un 72%, En la evaluación de la susceptibilidad a través del kit Integral System Yeast Plus se obtuvo que Cándida Albicans es susceptible a Anfotericina B, Flucitosina entre otros, en Cándida Glabrata se obtuvo que es sensible a la Nistatina, Anfotericina B, susceptible entre otros, en Cándida Krusei se obtuvo que es sensible a la Anfotericina B, Clotrimazol, Miconazol, susceptibles a la Nistatina, Voriconazol y resistente a la Flucitosina, Ketoconazol, Itraconazol y Fluconazol.

INTRODUCTION: fungal infections caused by yeast of the genus Candida are extremely common in women of reproductive age, and constitute a reason for medical health care. OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the susceptibility of Candida spp, using the colorimetric method (Integral Yeast System Plus). METHOD: it was descriptive, transversal; Information was collected through direct observation in the field and documentary analysis to obtain secondary bibliographic information. RESULTS: of the 72 cases found, Candida Albicans reveals that they are susceptible to amphotericin B (2ug / ml); of the 5 cases found, Candida Krusei reveals that they are sensitive to Amphotericin B (2ug / ml); Of 1 case found of Candida Parapsilosis reveals sensitivity in Nystatin (1.25ug / ml). In this study, the prevalence of Candida infection was (44.98%). CONCLUSIONS: Candida Albicans was the most common species isolated in pregnant women, representing 72%. In the evaluation of susceptibility through the Integral System Yeast Plus kit it was obtained that Candida Albicans is susceptible to Amphotericin B, Flucytosine among others, in Candida Glabrata was obtained that it is sensitive to Nystatin, Amphotericin B, susceptible among others, in Candida Krusei it was obtained that it is sensitive to Amphotericin B, Clotrimazole, Miconazole, susceptible to Nystatin, Voriconazole and resistant to Flucytosin, Ketoconazole, Itraconazole and Fluconazole.

INTRODUÇÃO: as infecções fúngicas causadas por leveduras do gênero Candida são extremamente comuns em mulheres em idade reprodutiva e constituem motivo de cuidados médicos. OBJETIVO: avaliar a suscetibilidade de Candida spp, por meio do método colorimétrico (Integral Yeast System Plus). MÉTODO: foi descritivo, transversal; as informações foram coletadas por meio de observação direta em campo e análise documental para obtenção de informações bibliográficas secundárias. RESULTADOS: Dos 72 casos encontrados, Cândida Albicans revelou ser suscetíveis à anfotericina B (2ug /ml); dos 5 casos encontrados, Candida Krusei revela que são sensíveis à Anfotericina B (2ug / ml); de 1 caso encontrado de Candida Parapsilosis revela sensibilidade na Nistatina (1,25ug / ml). Neste estudo, a prevalência de infecção por Candida foi (44,98%). CONCLUSÕES: Cândida Albicans foi a espécie mais comum isolada em gestantes, representando 72%. Na avaliação da susceptibilidade através do kit Integral System Yeast Plus foi obtido que Candida Albicans é suscetível à Anfotericina B, Flucitosina entre outras, em Cândida Glabrata foi obtido que é sensível a Nistatina, Anfotericina B, suscetível entre outras, em Candida Krusei foi obtido que é sensível a Anfotericina B, Clotrimazol, Miconazol, suscetível a Nistatina, Voriconazol e resistente a Flucitosina, Cetoconazol, Itraconazol e Fluconazol.

Efficacy of topical clotrimazole vs. topical tolnaftate in the treatment of otomycosis. A randomized controlled clinical trial / Eficácia do clotrimazol tópico versus tolnaftato tópico no tratamento da otomicose: um ensaio clínico controlado randomizado

Abstract Introduction: Otomycosis, an infection of the ear canal by fungi, is prevalent in hot and humid weather. Nevertheless, there is not sufficient evidence for the effectiveness of different topical antifungal treatments. Tolnaftate, is a topical antifungal agent described to be effective in the treatment of otomycosis. Currently there are not sufficient studies that prove its efficacy. Objectives: To compare the efficacy of clotrimazole and tolnaftate administration in the treatment of otomycosis. Material and methods: A controlled, randomized and open clinical trial included patients diagnosed with fungal external otitis who were treated with topical antifungals, randomized into two treatment groups: (1) clotrimazole cream; (2) tolnaftate solution. They were microscopically evaluated at one and two weeks of treatment to determine resolution of disease. Recurrence and complications were recorded. Demographic and clinical variables were collected and analyzed. Follow-up and final outcomes (absence of infection) were compared between groups. Results: Forty eight patients were included, 28 in the clotrimazole group and 20 in the tolnaftate group. Spring was the weather most commonly associated with otomycosis, while otic manipulation was the risk factor more common in both groups. Predominant symptoms were itching and otic fullness. Aspergillus niger organism was isolated most frequently. Treatment with clotrimazole resulted in 75% resolution vs 45% resolution with treatment with tolnaftate at one week of treatment (p = 0.007). The Tolnaftate treatment group demonstrated higher recurrence rates and treatment failures, 20% and 15% respectively. Conclusions: Clotrimazole cream treatment is more effective than tolnaftate for uncomplicated otomycosis. More studies are needed to corroborate our results.

Resumo Introdução: Otomicose, uma infecção fúngica do canal auditivo externo, é prevalente em climas quentes e úmidos. No entanto, a literatura não apresenta evidências suficientes sobre os diferentes tratamentos antifúngicos tópicos. O tolnaftato é um antifúngico tópico descrito como eficaz no tratamento da otomicose; entretanto, sua eficácia não está suficientemente comprovada. Objetivo: Comparar a eficácia do uso de clotrimazol e tolnaftato no tratamento da otomicose. Material e método: Ensaio clínico controlado e randomizado; incluiu pacientes diagnosticados com otite externa fúngica tratados com antifúngicos tópicos, randomizados em dois grupos de tratamento: 1) clotrimazole (creme); 2) solução de tolnaftato. Eles foram avaliados microscopicamente uma e duas semanas após o início do tratamento para avaliar a resolução da doença. Recorrência e intercorrências foram registradas; além disso, as variáveis demográficas e clínicas foram coletadas e analisadas. Os dados do acompanhamento e desfechos finais (ausência de infecção) foram comparados entre os grupos. Resultados: O estudo incluiu 48 pacientes, 28 dos quais foram alocados ao grupo clotrimazole e 20 ao grupo tolnaftato. A primavera foi a estação mais comum; a manipulação foi o fator de risco mais comum em ambos os grupos. Os sintomas mais comuns foram coceira e plenitude auricular. Aspergillus niger foi o micro-organismo mais comumente isolado. Após uma semana, o tratamento com clotrimazol apresentou uma taxa de resolução de 75% vs. 45% com o tratamento com tolnaftato (p = 0,007). O tratamento com tolnaftato apresentou maiores taxas de recidiva e falhas: 20% e 15%, respectivamente. Conclusões: Em casos de otomicose não complicada, o uso de clotrimazol (creme) é mais eficaz do que o de tolnaftato. Mais estudos são necessários para corroborar os presentes resultados.

Efficacy of guava 5% cream vs. clotrimazole 1% cream in the treatment of Tinea corporis of patients seen at the Family Medicine Department of Quezon City General Hospital

Objective@#To determine the efficacy of Guava 5% cream compared to Clotrimazole 1% cream in the treatment of Tinea corporis of patients seen at Family Medicine Department of Quezon City General Hospital@*Design@#Randomized therapeutic clinical trial@*Setting@#Department of Family and Community Medicine Out Patient Department of Quezon City General Hospital@*Study Subjects@#Patients, male or female, 19 years old and above who consulted at Family and Community Medicine Department of Quezon City General Hospital@*Method@#The study was done from August- September 2019. Fifty subjects were randomly assigned to either Group A (25) or Group B (25) using systematic sampling method. Patients in Group A were instructed to apply on affected area Clotrimazole 1% Cream twice a day for 2 weeks, while patients on Group B applied Guava 5% cream twice a day for 2 weeks. Patients were instructed follow up on Week 1 for improvement, Week 2 for evaluating outcome of treatment and Week 4 to check for recurrences@*Results@#Total severity scores of both Groups A and B at Week 1, Week 2 and Week 4 were similar with p-values of 0.014, 0.480 and 0.386 respectively. Both groups were comparable as to the treatment outcome for Tinea corporis. Guava 5% cream is shown to be cost-effective considering the equally-effective treatment outcome and the lower average treatment cost@*Conclusion@#This study has shown that Guava 5% cream is equally effective as, and cheaper than Clotrimazole 1% cream, thus considered to be a cost-effective treatment for Tinea corporis.

Diphenyl Diselenide and Clotrimazole Co-loaded into Eudragit® RS 100 Nanocapsules Formulation Has Superior Antioxidant Potential and Promising Anti-candida Activity

Abstract In the current study, nanocapsules (NC) formulations containing a co-load of clotrimazole (C), a highly prescribed antifungal drug, and diphenyl diselenide [(PhSe)2], an organoselenium compound with a promising scope of pharmacological actions, were prepared. Formulations were characterized as well as the potential toxicity, antioxidant action, and antifungal effect were assessed using in vitro techniques. The NCs were prepared employing Eudragit® RS 100 as polymeric wall and medium chain triglycerides or virgin coconut oil (CO) as core. All NC suspensions had pH around acid range, compound content close to theoretical value (1 mg/mL/drug), average diameter in nanometric range, positive values of zeta potential as well as high encapsulation efficacy and mucoadhesive property. Physicochemical stability was performed over a 30-day period and showed no modification in the aforementioned parameters to all samples. Preliminary screening of toxicological potential performed by the hen's egg test chorioallantoic membrane technique classified the formulations as non-irritant. The DPPH radical assay revealed that nanoencapsulated compounds had superior antioxidant action in comparison to their free forms (concentration range tested 1.0-25.0 µg/mL). Importantly, the formulation composed of CO and containing C and (PhSe)2 showed the highest antioxidant potential and was selected for further investigation regarding antifungal effect against some Candida spp strains. Results of in vitro antifungal assay demonstrated that the C and (PhSe)2 co-encapsulation had a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values around 60. Thus, our study supplies additional data about advantages achieved by encapsulating active compounds.

Single Dose Topical Application of Clotrimazole for the Treatment of Otomycosis: Is This Enough?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To determine the efficacy of filling the external auditory meatus with 1% clotrimazole at a single visit for the treatment of otomycosis. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This prospective study included 40 patients who were referred to our clinic with complaints of ear itching, pain, and fullness, and were diagnosed with unilateral otomycosis. After cleaning the mycotic hyphae from the external auditory meatus, the ear canal was filled with 1% clotrimazole, using an intravenous catheter and syringe. The patients received follow-up examinations on post-treatment days 7, 15, and 45. RESULTS: The follow-up otomicroscopic examinations revealed that 95% of the ear canals were entirely clean and that all symptoms had resolved. The post-treatment scores of pain, aural fullness and itching were significantly lower than the pre-treatment scores (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Filling the external auditory meatus with 1% clotrimazole at a single visit is an easy, efficient, and cost-effective treatment for otomycosis. Additionally, high patient compliance makes this treatment superior to long-term topical therapy.

Comparison of the recovery rate of otomycosis using betadine and clotrimazole topical treatment / Comparação da taxa de recuperação de otomicose com o uso de tratamento tópico com betadina e clotrimazol

Abstract Introduction Otomycosis is a common diseases that can be associated with many complications including involvement of the inner ear and mortality in rare cases. Management of otomycosis can be challenging, and requires a close follow-up. Treatment options for otomycosis include local debridement, local and systemic antifungal agents and utilization of topical antiseptics. Objective This study was designed to compare the recovery rate of otomycosis using two therapeutic methods; topical betadine (Povidone-iodine) and clotrimazole. Methods In this single-blind clinical trial, 204 patients with otomycosis were selected using a non-probability convenient sampling method and were randomly assigned to two treatment groups of topical betadine and clotrimazole (102 patients in each group). Response to treatment was assessed at 4, 10 and 20 days after treatment. Data were analyzed using the independent t-test, Chi-Square and Fisher exact test in SPSS v.18 software, at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results The results showed that out of 204 patients with otomycosis, fungi type isolated included Aspergillus in 151 cases (74%), and Candida albicans in 53 patients (26%). On the fourth day after treatment, 13 patients (13.1%) in the group treated with betadine and 10 patients (9.8%) in the group treated with clotrimazole showed a good clinical response to treatment (p = 0.75). A good response to treatment was reported for 44 (43.1%) and 47 patients (46.1%) on the tenth day after the treatment (p = 0.85); and 70 (68.6%) and 68 patients (67.6%) on the twentieth day after treatment (p = 0.46) in the groups treated with betadine and clotrimazole, respectively. The response to treatment was thus not significantly different in the two groups. Conclusion In the present study the efficacy of betadine and clotrimazole was the same for the treatment of otomycosis. The result of this study supports the use of betadine as an effective antifungal in otomycosis treatment, helping to avoid the emergence of resistant organisms.

Resumo Introdução A otomicose é uma das doenças comuns associadas a muitas complicações, como envolvimento da orelha interna e mortalidade em casos raros. O tratamento da otomicose pode ser realmente desafiador e requer um acompanhamento rigoroso. As opções de tratamento para otomicose podem incluir desbridamento local, agentes antifúngicos locais e sistêmicos e uso de antissépticos tópicos, os medicamentos tópicos recomendados para o tratamento da otomicose. Objetivo Comparar a taxa de recuperação de otomicose utilizando dois métodos terapêuticos de betadina tópica (povidona-iodo) e clotrimazol. Método Neste ensaio clínico simples cego, 204 pacientes com otomicose foram selecionados utilizando-se método de amostragem de não probabilidade conveniente e randomizados para dois grupos de tratamento, com betadina tópica e com clotrimazol (102 pacientes em cada grupo). A resposta ao tratamento foi avaliada aos 4, 10 e 20 dias após o tratamento. Os dados foram analisados utilizando o teste t independente, qui-quadrado e teste de Fisher no software SPSS v.18, com nível de significância de p < 0,05. Resultados Os resultados mostraram que dos 204 pacientes com otomicose, os tipos de fungos isolados incluíram Aspergillus em 151 casos (74%) e Candida albicans em 53 pacientes (26%). No quarto dia após o tratamento, 13 pacientes (13,1%) no grupo tratado com betadina e 10 pacientes (9,8%) no grupo tratado com clotrimazol apresentaram boa resposta ao tratamento (p = 0,75). Uma boa resposta ao tratamento foi relatada para 44 (43,1%) e 47 pacientes (46,1%) no décimo dia após o tratamento (p = 0,85); e 70 (68,6%) e 68 pacientes (67,6%) no vigésimo dia após o tratamento (p = 0,46) no grupo tratado com betadina e clotrimazol, respectivamente. Assim, a resposta ao tratamento não foi significativamente diferente nos dois grupos. Conclusão No presente estudo, a eficácia da betadina e do clotrimazol foi a mesma no tratamento da otomicose. O resultado deste estudo apoia o uso de betadina como um antifúngico eficaz no tratamento da otomicose que pode ajudar a evitar o surgimento de organismos resistentes.

Imidazole Antifungal Drugs Inhibit the Cell Proliferation and Invasion of Human Breast Cancer Cells

Breast cancer is currently the most prevalent cancer in women, and its incidence increases every year. Azole antifungal drugs were recently found to have antitumor efficacy in several cancer types. They contain an imidazole (clotrimazole and ketoconazole) or a triazole (fluconazole and itraconazole) ring. Using human breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231), we evaluated the effects of azole drugs on cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, migration, and invasion, and investigated the underlying mechanisms. Clotrimazole and ketoconazole inhibited the proliferation of both cell lines while fluconazole and itraconazole did not. In addition, clotrimazole and ketoconazole inhibited the motility of MDA-MB-231 cells and induced G₁-phase arrest in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, as determined by cell cycle analysis and immunoblot data. Moreover, Transwell invasion and gelatin zymography assays revealed that clotrimazole and ketoconazole suppressed invasiveness through the inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase 9 in MDA-MB-231 cells, although no significant changes in invasiveness were observed in MCF-7 cells. There were no significant changes in any of the observed parameters with fluconazole or itraconazole treatment in either breast cancer cell line. Taken together, imidazole antifungal drugs showed strong antitumor activity in breast cancer cells through induction of apoptosis and G₁ arrest in both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells and suppression of invasiveness via matrix metalloproteinase 9 inhibition in MDA-MB-231 cells. Imidazole drugs have well-established pharmacokinetic profiles and known toxicity, which can make these generic drugs strong candidates for repositioning as antitumor therapies.

Effect observation of cleaning up the external auditory canal by otoendoscope combined with Clotrimazole Ointment in the treatment of pregnancy with otitis externa mycotica / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

To investigate the clinical effect of cleaning up the external auditory canal under otoendoscope combined with Clotrimazole Ointment in the treatment of pregnancy with otitis externa mycotica.From May 2015 to May 2017,16 cases of pregnant patients(19 ears)with otitis externa mycotica were divided into two groups:pure cleaning up group and cleaning up combined with medication group.In the pure cleaning up group,external auditory canal were only cleaned up under otoendoscope conventionally in 9 patients(11 ears),while in the cleaning up combined with medication group,Clotrimazole Ointment was topically applied after cleaning up the external auditory canal under otoendoscope in 7 patients(8 ears).After treatment of 2 weeks,the clinical curative effect,adverse reaction and average time interval to take effect were compared at the end of treatment.The total effective rate(100%)in cleaning up combined with medication group's was significantly better than that in pure cleaning up group's(81.81%)(<0.05);The average time interval to take effect in cleaning up combined with medication groupwas significantly shorter than that in pure cleaning up group's[(2.71±0.70)d vs(5.40±1.96)d,<0.05].After the two-week treatment,there was a four-week follow-up.Only one patient in pure cleaning up group relapsed.After two-week treatment by Clotrimazole Ointment,this patient was cured.Cleaning up the external auditory canal under otoendoscope combined with Clotrimazole Ointment is effective and safe for the treatment of otitis externa mycotica in pregnant women.The addition of topical application of Clotrimazole Ointment further improve the therapeutic efficacy,as compared to the conventional method of cleaning up the external auditory canal under otoendoscope.We suggest clinical application of this method.

Dust particles-induced intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling and reactive oxygen species in lung fibroblast cell line MRC5

Epidemiologic interest in particulate matter (PM) is growing particularly because of its impact of respiratory health. It has been elucidated that PM evoked inflammatory signal in pulmonary epithelia. However, it has not been established Ca²⁺ signaling mechanisms involved in acute PM-derived signaling in pulmonary fibroblasts. In the present study, we explored dust particles PM modulated intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling and sought to provide a therapeutic strategy by antagonizing PM-induced intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling in human lung fibroblasts MRC5 cells. We demonstrated that PM10, less than 10 µm, induced intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling, which was mediated by extracellular Ca²⁺. The PM10-mediated intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling was attenuated by antioxidants, phospholipase blockers, polyADPR polymerase 1 inhibitor, and transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) inhibitors. In addition, PM-mediated increases in reactive oxygen species were attenuated by TRPM2 blockers, clotrimazole (CLZ) and N-(p-amylcinnamoyl) anthranilic acid (ACA). Our results showed that PM10 enhanced reactive oxygen species signal by measuring DCF fluorescence and the DCF signal attenuated by both TRPM2 blockers CLZ and ACA. Here, we suggest functional inhibition of TRPM2 channels as a potential therapeutic strategy for modulation of dust particle-mediated signaling and oxidative stress accompanying lung diseases.

Comparison of oral itraconazole versus topical clotrimazole in treatment of pityriasis versicolor

Objective: To compare the efficacy of single dose of oral itraconazole 400mg with 1% topical clotrimazole in the treatment of pityriasis versicolor

Study Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Place and Duration of Study: Dermatology department, Military Hospital Rawalpindi, from Jun 2015 to Dec 2015

Material and Methods: A total of 60 patients of pityriasis versicolor fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected from dermatology OPD after written informed consent and approval from the hospital ethical committee

Patients were divided into two treatment groups using random numbers table. Group A received single dose of itraconazole capsule [400mg] and group B received 1% clotrimazole cream twice daily application for 2 weeks

Patient evaluation included detailed history, clinical examination and direct microscopy of skin scrapings for fungal hyphae at the baseline, at the end of 2[nd] and 6[th] week of treatment. Efficacy of treatment was assessed on the basis of clinical and mycological cure

Results: At the end of 2 weeks of treatment, clinical cure was seen in 23 [76.6%] and 29 [96.6%] patients [p=0.05] and mycological cure in 20 [66%] and 26 [86.6%] patients in group A and B respectively [p=0.06]. At follow up [end of 6 week] 21 [70%] and 28 [93.3%] patients were cured clinically [p=0.02] while 18 [60%] and 27 [90%] patients were cured mycologically [p=0.007] in group A and B respectively

Conclusion: Topical clotrimazole [1%] was found more effective than single dose of oral itraconazole in the treatment of pityriasis versicolor

Species Distribution and In Vitro Antifungal Susceptibility of Vulvovaginal Candida Isolates in China / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) was a common infection associated with lifelong harassment of woman's social and sexual life. The purpose of this study was to describe the species distribution and in vitroCandidaCandida spp.) isolated from patients with VVC over 8 years.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Species which isolated from patients with VVC in Peking University First Hospital were identified using chromogenic culture media. Susceptibility to common antifungal agents was determined using agar diffusion method based on CLSI M44-A2 document. SPSS software (version 14.0, Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) was used for statistical analysis, involving statistical description and Chi-square test.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The most common strains were Candida (C.) albicans, 80.5% (n = 1775) followed by C. glabrata, 18.1% (n = 400). Nystatin exhibited excellent activity against all species (<4% resistant [R]). Resistance to azole drugs varied among different species. C. albicans: clotrimazole (3.1% R) < fluconazole (16.6% R) < itraconazole (51.5% R) < miconazole (54.0% R); C. glabrata: miconazole (25.6% R) < clotrimazole (50.5% R) < itraconazole (61.9% R) < fluconazole (73.3% R); Candida krusei: clotrimazole (0 R) < fluconazole (57.7% R) < miconazole (73.1% R) < itraconazole (83.3% R). The susceptibility of fluconazole was noticeably decreasing among all species in the study period.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Nystatin was the optimal choice for the treatment of VVC at present. The species distribution and in vitroCandida spp. isolated from patients with VVC had changed over time.</p>

Evaluation of Efficacy, Safety and Tolerability of a Combination of Clobetasol, Neomycin and Miconazole Versus Betamethasone, Clotrimazole and Neomycin Versus Betamethasone, Gentamycin and Miconazole in Subjects with Eczematous Disorders Associated with underlying Tinea or Yeast Infections.

Lobate GM Neo, 15 mg is a triple drug combination of a steroid clobetasol with anti-fungal miconazole and antibacterial neomycin in treatment of Eczematous disorders associated with underlying Tinea or Yeast Infections. Aims and Objectives: The study was designed to evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of a combinations of clobetasol, neomycin and miconazole (Group A) versus betamethasone, clotrimazole, neomycin (Group B) versus betamethasone, gentamicin, miconazole (Group C) in subjects with any type of eczematous disorder associated with underlying tinea or yeast infection. Materials and Methods: This was an open label, parallel group, randomized comparative study. The primary endpoint analyzed was improvement in clinical score from baseline at the end of day 7 and other primary endpoint like hyperpigmentation were analyzed by the visual analogue scale of 1 to 10 at the end of day 7. Results: Thirty-six subjects were randomized to three groups. The clinical score showed a significant reduction from baseline at the end of day 7 in all the groups, i.e. 82.9%, 81.3% and 85.6% in Group A, B and C respectively. However, the difference between the groups were not statistically significant. Mean hyper pigmentation score showed significant decrease of 82.9% in Group A, 81.6% in Group B and 92.2% in Group C from baseline at the end of day 7. Conclusion: The triple combination of antifungal, antibacterial and potent steroid was found to be efficacious, safe and tolerable in reducing signs and symptoms (scaling, inflammation, burning and itching) of eczematous disorder associated with underlying tinea/yeast infection.

An Open, Comparative, Randomized, Parallel, Post Marketing, Multicentric Trial to Compare the Safety and Efficacy of Formula A (Ofloxacin + Ornidazole + Terbinafine Hydrochloride + Clobetasol Propionate) versus Formula B (Clotrimazole + Beclometasone Dipropionate + Neomycin Sulphate), Formula C (Clotrimazole + Beclometasone Dipropionate + Neomycin Sulphate) and Formula D (Clotrimazole + Beclometasone Dipropionate + Neomycin Sulphate) in the Treatment of Patients with Vaginitis.

Vaginitis is among the most common conditions for which women seek medical care, with vaginal discharge accounting for approximately 10 million office visits each year. Since there are no published studies till date that evaluated the Clinical Effectiveness and Safety of Topical Cream of Formula A [Ofloxacin (0.75 % w/w) + Ornidazole (2% w/w) + Terbinafine Hydrochloride (1% w/w) + Clobetasol Propionate (0.05% w/w)] compared to Formula B [Clotrimazole (1%w/w) + Beclometasone Dipropionate (0.025%w/w) + Neomycin Sulphate (0.5% w/w)], Formula C [Clotrimazole (1%w/w) + Beclometasone Dipropionate (0.025%w/w) + Neomycin Sulphate (0.5% w/w)], and Formula D [Clotrimazole (1%w/w) + Beclometasone Dipropionate (0.025%w/w) + Neomycin Sulphate (0.5% w/w)], in mild to moderate vaginitis, hence we undertook this randomized controlled Post Marketing Multicentric trial. Materials and methods: Female subjects diagnosed with mild to moderate symptoms of Vaginitis were eligible and those fulfilling the subject selection criteria were randomized to receive either Formula A, Formula B, Formula C or Formula D for 14 days. The Primary efficacy measures were assessment of symptoms of Vaginitis i.e. vaginal pruritis, vaginal irritation, vaginal soreness or pain, dyspareunia, vaginal erosion and vaginal inflammation and Secondary efficacy measures were assessment of Physical characteristics of vaginal discharge, assessment of pH of vaginal discharge and Microbiological evaluation. Assessment of Safety was done by recording the occurrence of adverse drug reactions. Results: The clinical success rates were comparable and even far better in case of Formula A group (in vaginal pain, Dyspareunia and vaginal erosion it was 100 %, in case of vaginal inflammation it was 92.655 % while in case of vaginal irritation, it was 94.767 % and vaginal pruritus, it was 87.096 %). Adverse events were mild and self limiting while it was totally absent in case of Formula A group. Conclusion: Topical Cream of Formula A is safe and effective for the treatment of mild to moderate vaginitis.

Comparison of the Minimum Fungicidal Concentration of Clotrimazole, Ketoconazole, Miconazole and Terbinafine Against Clinical Isolates of Dermatophytes.

Superficial fungal infections affect millions of people worldwide. Earlier most dermatophyte strains had relatively restricted geographical distribution. But currently, dermatophytosis has become one of the most common human infectious diseases worldwide. Fungal infections are common in hot and humid climate of tropical countries like India. Topical and systemic therapies are commonly used to treat dermatophyte infections.Clotrimazole is one of the most commonly used topical antifungal drugs. This study compared the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of Clotrimazole with Miconazole, Ketoconazole and Terbinafine in skin dermatophytes. The study demonstrated that Clotrimazole had lower MFCs as compared to Ketoconazole and Miconazole against Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Microsporum canis. Clotrimazole had comparable MFCs versus Terbinafine against Trichophyton rubrum but it had lower MFCs against Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Microsporum canis. Thus, Clotrimazole is an effective antifungal agent for dermatophytosis even today.The efficacy of Clotrimazole even against strains with intermediate resistance or resistance to the older azole anti fungal drugs reiterate the current decisions of empirical treatment with topical Clotrimazole for the management of superficial dermatophyte infections.

Investigation of antibacterial activity of topical antimicrobials against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus / 中华烧伤杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the antibacterial activity of silver sulfadiazine (SD-Ag), mupirocin, and clotrimazole used alone or in combination against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from burn wounds.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Eighteen MRSA isolates from wound excretion of 18 burn patients hospitalized in our unit from July to December 2011 were collected continuously and non-repetitively. (1) Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), 50% MIC (MIC50), and 90% MIC (MIC90) of SD-Ag, mupirocin, and clotrimazole used alone, those of SD-Ag and mupirocin used in combination, and those of SD-Ag, mupirocin, and clotrimazole used in combination to MRSA were determined by checkerboard agar dilution method. (2) Fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index was calculated to determine the combined effect of SD-Ag plus mupirocin, and SD-Ag plus mupirocin and clotrimazole. Synergy with FIC index less than or equal to 0.5 or additivity with FIC index more than 0.5 and less than or equal to 1.0 was regarded as effective, and indifference with FIC index more than 1.0 and less than or equal to 4.0 or antagonism with FIC index more than 4.0 was regarded as ineffective. The effective ratio was compared with overall ratio (assumed as 0) by unilateral binomial distribution test.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The MIC, MIC50, and MIC90 of SD-Ag, mupirocin, and clotrimazole used alone against 18 MRSA isolates were respectively 8, 8, 16 µg/mL; 2, 16, 64 µg/mL; 2, 2, 2 µg/mL. MIC of antimicrobial agents used in combination decreased from 3.1% to 50.0% as compared with that of individual agent used alone. Compared with those of single application of SD-Ag and mupirocin, MIC50 of SD-Ag and that of mupirocin both decreased 75.0%, and MIC90 of them decreased 87.5% when SD-Ag and mupirocin were used in combination. Compared with those of single application of SD-Ag, mupirocin, and clotrimazole, MIC50 of SD-Ag, mupirocin, and clotrimazole respectively decreased 75.0%, 87.5%, and 50.0%; MIC90 of them respectively decreased 87.5%, 96.9%, and 50.0% when SD-Ag, mupirocin, and clotrimazole were used in combination. Among the 18 MRSA isolates, the combined effect of SD-Ag and mupirocin was synergic in 9 isolates, additive in 7 isolates, indifferent in 2 isolates, and antagonistic in 0 isolate; the combined effect of SD-Ag, mupirocin, and clotrimazole was additive in 16 isolates, indifferent in 2 isolates, and antagonistic in 0 isolate. There were statistically significant differences between effective ratio and overall ratio of 18 MRSA isolates treated with combined antimicrobial agents (P values all above 0.01).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>For burn wounds at middle and late stages infected with Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus aureus and Fungus, low dose of SD-Ag or combination of above-mentioned antimicrobial agents can effectively control infection and decrease the adverse effect of antimicrobial agents on wound healing.</p>

Comparison of the efficacy of lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) 10% cream vs Clotrimazole 1% cream in the treatment of superficial fungal skin infections

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) 10% cream versus Clotrimazole 1% cream in the treatment of superficial fungal skin infection. DESIGN: Randomized clinical trial SETTING: Quezon City General Hospital, Out-patient Department STUDY SUBJECTS: Patients aged 17 years old and above seen at the Department of Family and Community Medicine (DFCM) Out Patient Department (OPD) Quezon City General Hospital and Medical Center. METHOD: The study was conducted from from May-September 2013. Of 50 subjects, 49 were included in the study and assigned to either Group A (25) or Group B (24) using systematic sampling method. Patients in Group A were instructed to apply on affected areas Clotrimazole 1% cream twice a day for 2 weeks, whereas Group B applied lemon grass 10% cream twice a day for 2 weeks. RESULTS: Forty-nine subjects completed the study. In both groups, most respondents belonged to the 15-25 age group, were males, married, unemployed and reached college level. Both groups were comparable with P values > 0.05. The mean change in the grading scale of the lesion from the baseline - 2 weeks of treatment was statistically significant for both groups (P-value 0.001 for both), hence both treatments showed improvement in the fungal lesion. The difference in the baseline grading scale for both groups was not statistically significant with P-value of 0.110, hence comparable. However, comparison of the mean difference in the grading scale of the lesion after 2 weeks of treatment was statistically significant with P-value of 0.001, meaning that Group A showed faster resolution of lesions compared to Group B. No adverse reaction was observed in Group B. CONCLUSION: Topical application of lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) 10% cream improved superficial fungal skin infection but was found to be inferior to Clotrimazole 1% cream as to the lesion resolution at 2 weeks.

Lamisil versus clotrimazole in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis

Vaginal candidiasis is a common disease in women during their lifetime and occurs in diabetes patients, during pregnancy and oral contraceptives users. Although several antifungals are routinely used for treatment; however, vaginal candidiasis is a challenge for patients and gynecologists. The aim of the present study was to evaluate terbinafme [Lamisil] on Candida vaginitis versus clotrimazole. In the present study women suspected to have vulvovaginal candidiasis were sampled and disease confirmed using direct smear and culture examination from vaginal discharge. Then, patients were randomly divided into two groups, the first group [32 cases] was treated with clotrimazole and the next [25 cases] with Lamisil. All patients were followed-up to three weeks of treatment and therapeutic effects of both antifungal were compared. Our results shows that 12 [37.5%] patients were completely treated with clotrimazole during two weeks and, 6[18.8%] patients did not respond to drugs and were refereed for fluconazole therapy. Fourteen [43.8%] patients showed moderate response and clotrimazole therapy was extended for one more week. When Lamisil was administrated, 19 [76.0%] patients were completely treated with Lamisil in two weeks, and 1 [4.0%] of the patients did not respond to the drug and was refereed for fluconazole therapy. Five [20.0%] of our patients showed moderate response and Lamisil therapy was extended for one more week. Our results show that vaginal cream, 1% Lamisil, could be suggested as a first-line treatment in vulvovaginal candidiasis

[Chemical composition and anti-candida activity of Trachyspermum ammi essential oil on azoles resistant Candida albicans isolates from oral cavity of HIV+ patients]

Oral candidiasis, caused by Candida albicans, is one of the most common infections in immunocompromised patients, especially in HIV+ individuals. The aims of this study were to evaluate the susceptibility of C. albicans isolates to azole drugs and Trachyspermum ammi essential oil. Oral swabs were cultured from 70 HIV+ patients and In order to identify and confirm of C. albicans isolates, Chrom agar, Corn meal agar, germ tube production, carbohydrate assimilation, growth at 45[degree sign]C and PCR were performed. Sensivity to fluconazol, ketoconazole and clotrimazol were assessed by disc diffusion and also the effect of T. ammi essential oil was determined by disc diffusion and microdilution broth methods. The causative agent, in 50 patients with oral candidiasis, was C. albicans [71.4%]. In sensivity determination survey to antifungal drugs, the resistance of isolates to fluconazole, ketoconazole and clotrimazole were determined 32%, 28% and 14%, respectively. In disc diffusion, all isolates have an acceptable sensivity at 10 - 20 micro L of the oil and 30 micro L inhibit the growth completely in plate. Minimum Inhibitory Concentrsation [MIC] by microdilution broth method was 500ppm and 750ppm in 72% and 28% of isolates, respectively, and Minimum Fungicidal Concentration[MFC] in 70% of isolates were 750ppm and for the rest of the isolates [30%] were 1000ppm. We conclude that use of this native plant, as an antifungal compound, could act as a treatment of the patients with mucosal candidiasis, beside of other drugs in to the future