antiseptilisi

Antiseptilisi, commonly referred to in English as antiseptics, are substances applied to living tissue to inhibit the growth of microorganisms or to destroy them, with the aim of reducing infection. They are used on skin, wounds, and mucous membranes, and are distinct from disinfectants, which are intended for inanimate surfaces.

Antiseptics encompass a range of chemical classes, each with different spectrums of activity, modes of action, and safety profiles. Alcohols (such as ethanol and isopropanol) denature proteins and disrupt cell membranes. Iodine-based solutions (including povidone-iodine) inactivate a broad array of pathogens by interfering with proteins and nucleic acids. Chlorhexidine disrupts cell membranes and has a relatively persistent antimicrobial effect, making it common in surgical prepping. Hydrogen peroxide acts through the production of reactive oxygen species that damage cellular components. Other agents include phenolics and quaternary ammonium compounds, used in various healthcare and consumer products.

The effectiveness of antiseptics depends on concentration, contact time, and the organism involved. Some agents are cytotoxic and can impede wound healing or irritate sensitive skin, so they must be chosen carefully based on the clinical context. Antiseptics are primarily intended for topical use; they are not a substitute for antibiotics when systemic infection risk exists. They can be used for hand hygiene, preoperative skin antisepsis, wound irrigation, and sterilization of minor injuries, following appropriate guidelines and regulatory recommendations.

Safety concerns include potential allergic reactions, skin irritation, and, in rare cases, systemic effects with improper use. Regulation and guidance on use vary by country, reflecting differences in approved agents and concentrations.