Mechanisms by which proteolytic enzymes prolong the golden period of antibiotic action.

These experimental studies provide an explanation for the therapeutic value of proteolytic enzymes as adjuncts to antibiotic treatment of contaminated wounds. After wounding, a fibrinous coagulum develops on the wound surface. This coagulum surrounds the bacteria and protects them from contact with sustemically or topically administered antibiotics. Treatment of the wound surface with proteolytic enzymes disrupts the coagulum and exposes the bacteria to the action of the antibiotic. The topical use of enzymes is also associated with significant increases in the concentration of antibiotic at the wound and thus a decrease in the rate of infection.