CLINICAL EFFECT OF CHITOSAN IN BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS THERAPY

Aim. Determination of antibacterial activity of acid-soluble chitosan in bacterial vaginosis therapy in women of reproductive age and comparison of therapy results of traditional scheme and local administration of acid-soluble chitosan. Materials and methods. Vaginal microflora of 76 gynecologic and obstetrical female patients (18 - 43 years of age) with bacterial vaginosis diagnosis was examined by using bacteriological method. Control group consisted of 30 practically healthy women. Sensitivity of 145 bacteria strains from 14 genera to 2% acid-soluble chitosan solution (200 - 250 kDa molecular weight) was determined by using agar diffusion method. Results. During bacterial vaginosis members of the Gardnerella, Mobiluncus and Bacteroides genera dominated with a background reduction of lactobacilli quantity. An increase of population level of Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, Prevotella, Porphyromonas, Peptostreptococcus genera members, and Candida species was also observed. All the microorganisms were sensitive to 2% chitosan solution. Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma spp. were sensitive to chitosan in 82% of cases. Administration of chitosan in local therapy of vaginosis resulted in suppression of opportunistic microflora and clinical effect with a lack of adverse effects. Conclusion. Local administration of chitosan is perspective against bacterial vaginosis.

vaginal microbiocenosis, bacterial vaginosis, chitosan