The Adaptation of Virac, a New Iodophore, to Clinical Use

The germicidal properties of iodine are well known. Indeed, it has been used with good results as an antiseptic for many decades. Its merits for this purpose, recently reviewed by Gershenfeld,1 are numerous. First, it is bactericidal rather than bacteriostatic. Second, such action is rapid and is achieved in comparatively low concentration. Third, unlike most germicides, iodine is essentially equipotent against all bacteria. Fourth, in addition to its bactericidal properties, iodine has well-known activity against spores, fungi, and viruses. Fifth, its tissue toxicity is comparatively low, the toxicity index being less than that of benzalkonium chloride, mercuric chloride, or phenol.1In spite of its potency and widespread use as a home remedy, iodine finds only limited application in clinical medicine. Most commonly iodine has been used as a skin disinfectant prior to surgery. There is little doubt of its value for this purpose.2,3 However, the use of