In vitro assessment of gentian violet anti- candida activity.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis (RVVC) needs alternative therapeutic approaches. Gentian violet (GeV) has been traditionally used to treat mucocutaneous candidosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the in vitro activity of GeV against Candida spp. and contribute to clarify the mechanism of action, supporting its clinical therapeutic use.

METHODS

Seventeen clinical Candida isolates from RVVC and one C. albicans type collection (ATCC 10231) were studied; the antifungal activity of GeV was evaluated according to the CLSI M27-A3 protocol. To elucidate its mechanism of action, cells were stained with propidium iodide and afterwards analyzed by flow cytometer.

RESULTS

GeV showed a fungicidal activity against most Candida spp. C. albicans and C. tropicalis were the most susceptible species. Minimal lethal concentrations were similar to minimal inhibitory concentrations for most tested strains. The fungicidal effect was not related to a primary lesion of the cytoplasmic membrane.

CONCLUSION

In accordance with our findings, GeV is a valuable potent fungicidal drug to be used topically, isolated or in combination with oral antifungal drugs, particularly in RVVC cases.