(CR-018) The Use of Hypochlorous Acid Cleanser Solution in the Palliative Care of Wounds in Candida Auris Patients

Introduction: The emergence of Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant fungus, poses significant challenges in wound management due to its high transmissibility and resistance to conventional antifungal treatments. This pathogen is associated with high morbidity and mortality, particularly in immunocompromised patients with extensive wounds. Effective wound care protocols are essential to prevent the spread and promote healing in affected patients. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of hypochlorous acid cleanser solution in the care of wounds in patients infected with Candida auris. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 20 hospitalized patients at an 850-bed urban hospital in the Bronx, New York. The patients presented with various types of wounds, including pressure injuries, vascular leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, and moisture-associated skin damage (MASD), and were diagnosed with Candida auris.

Methods: Wound care involved the use of hypochlorous acid cleanser solution as the primary cleansing agent. Data on wound healing progress were collected from medical records. Monitoring wounds in Candida Auris patients receiving HOCl cleanser solution involves combination of regular assessments, microbial testing, clinical signs of infection and wound healing progress. By combining these methods, it was readily easy to assess the effectiveness of HOCl in controlling the fungal infection, reducing the microbial load, and supporting the healing process of the wound.

Results: Pre-clinical studies indicate that hypochlorous acid demonstrates strong antimicrobial activity against Candida auris, including significant reductions in fungal burden and prevention of biofilm formation on wound surfaces. It also enhances wound healing by promoting granulation tissue formation, reducing inflammation, and supporting epithelialization. No adverse reactions to the hypochlorous acid cleanser were reported. Its use in various wound types suggests it may be a valuable addition to wound care practices, especially in settings dealing with multidrug-resistant organisms.

Discussion: The hypochlorous acid cleanser solution shows significant promise as a therapeutic tool in managing Candida auris infections in patients with extensive wounds. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial action, coupled with its ability to promote wound healing, offers a valuable adjunct to traditional treatments. Incorporating hypochlorous acid into wound care regimens may enhance outcomes and reduce the burden of this challenging pathogen.