<i>In vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> antimicrobial activity of medicated wipes containing biosecur on the microbial Flora of the eyelid and conjunctiva

PurposeTo evaluate the <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> antimicrobial activity on the microbial flora of the eyelids and conjunctiva of the new medicated wipes LENIVA bio, soaked with an antiseptic solution containing natural extracts from citrus fruits (Biosecur^®), <i>Aloe vera</i>, and <i>Ruscus aculeatus</i>.MethodsThe <i>in vitro</i> antimicrobial activity of the LENIVA bio antiseptic solution against bacteria and fungi commonly found in the periocular area, including antibiotic-resistant strains, was measured by agar diffusion and microdilution assays. The <i>in vivo</i> activity was measured on swabs collected from the eyelid rim and conjunctiva of 20 patients (13 males, 7 females; mean age 70.5 years) before and after a 4-day treatment with the product. Contralateral untreated eyes were used as controls.ResultsThe <i>in vitro</i> analysis of inhibition halos in agar diffusion assays demonstrated that LENIVA bio is active against all tested germs, even when diluted. <i>In vivo</i>, the reduction in the total microbial counts obtained from both eyelid rim and conjunctival swabs following treatment with LENIVA bio wipes was statistically significant (respectively, mean reduction = 4530 CFU/ml, <i>p</i> < 0.0001; mean reduction = 893 CFU/ml, <i>p</i> = 0.0384).ConclusionLENIVA bio wipes showed <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> antimicrobial activity against microorganisms that are potential pathogens of the eye and/or commonly found in the periocular area.