In vitro evaluation of natamycin 5% suspension against Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium solani, and Candida parasilopsis
Farlah Angela M. Salvosa, MD, Leo P. Cubillan, MD, Mrs. Lilia Flor Nievera, RMT
Objective
This study compared the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of two available brands of natamycin 5% suspension (Natacyn and Elmycin) against three ocular fungi (Aspergillus flavus, Candida parasilopsis, Fusarium solani).
Methods
Antifungal susceptibility testing by broth microdilution was performed. The MIC and MFC of both brands were determined and paired t-tests were compared.
Results
Results of MIC and MFC of Elmycin and Natacyn against Aspergillus flavus showed no significant difference (p = 0.05). The same values were obtained for Fusarium solani and Candida parasilopsis, showing no difference in their MIC and MFC.
Conclusion
Elmycin and Natacyn have similar MIC and MFC against Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium solani, and Candida parasilopsis as determined by in vitro tube dilution technique. Elmycin may be used as an alternative agent against these organisms in fungal keratitis.