Ototoxicity of Topical Ticarcillin and Clavulanic Acid in the Chinchilla

T. Jakob, C. G. Wright, K. Robinson, W. L. Meyerhoff

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

13 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Currently available topical otic preparations contain a variety of antibiotics and other ingredients that are potentially damaging to the middle and inner ear. There is therefore a need to identify agents that are safe as well as effective for topical otologic use. In pursuit of that goal, we used an animal model to evaluate the ototoxic potential of the broad-spectrum, penicillin derivative ticarcillin—bothalone and combined with clavulanic acid (a β-lactamaseinhibitor). Methods: Twenty chinchillas served as subjects. Ten of the animals were given a single middle ear application of ticarcillin; the remaining 10 animals received ticarcillin disodium plus clavulanate potassium (Timentin). Five animals from each of the two groups were killed after 1 week to assess short-term effects and the other five animals in each group were kept for 4 weeks before their temporal bones were removed for histologic study. Results: Significant toxic effects, involving both the middle and inner ear, were observed in all experimental groups. Alterations of the middle ear at 1 week included inflammation, hemorrhage, and effusions. Middle ear cholesteatomas were observed at 4 weeks. Inner ear changes seen at I and 4 weeks included hair cell loss, supporting cell degeneration, and strial damage. Conclusion: The study results indicate that ticarcillin should not be considered for further evaluation as a possible antibiotic for use in ototopical preparations.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)39-43
Number of pages5
JournalArchives of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery
Volume121
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1995

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Otorhinolaryngology

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