EFFECT OF MEROCEL(TM) VAGINAL SPONGE ON GROWTH OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS-AUREUS AND PRODUCTION OF TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME-ASSOCIATED TOXINS

BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus aureus toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 and ent erotoxin B are the major causes of toxic shock syndrome. These toxins are produced in sufficient concentrations to produce illness in the pr esence of certain tampons. This necessitates evaluating tampons, as we ll as wound dressings for their effects on S. aureus growth and toxin production. STUDY DESIGN: In this study, the Merocel vaginal sponge wa s evaluated both in vitro and in vivo in a rabbit model for effect on S. aureus. The Merocel sponge was tested in Erlenmeyer shake flasks co ntaining growth media and in dialysis tubing immersed in agar growth m edia for both effect on S. aureus plate counts compared to media alone and effect on production of toxic shock syndrome toxins. The in vivo test included placement of Merocel sponges subcutaneously along the fl anks of rabbits with subsequent inoculation with toxic shock syndrome bacteria and evaluation for development of illness and death. RESULTS: In the two standard in vitro tests, the shake flask and tampon sac, t he Merocel sponge inhibited both growth of toxic shock syndrome S. aur eus and production of toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 and enterotoxin B. The Merocel sponge also prevented development of toxic shock syndrome in a rabbit model. CONCLUSIONS: The data suggest the Merocel sponge ma y reduce the risk of development of toxic shock syndrome in associatio n with its use. These studies may serve as models for evaluation of ot her products that are intended to be used on mucosal and skin surfaces , for their effect on toxic shock syndrome toxins.