Trichophyton mentagrophytes is a dermatophyte known for causing athlete’s foot, ringworm and other skin infections in humans and animals. This fungus is transmitted via direct contact or through contaminated surfaces. Therefore, use of appropriate disinfectant for prevention of its spread is vital in healthcare settings, sports facilities, communal and other public places. Validation of the antifungal efficacy of these disinfectants or sanitizers must be done using high-quality testing services so as to ensure that they can effectively prevent the transmission of this fungus. Choosing the right testing method can be challenging, given the availability of multiple international test standards.
This article simplifies this decision making process by offering insights into the most important standards and practical advice for selecting the appropriate testing method.
Insider tips for choosing the right method for testing antifungal disinfectants or products targeted to kill Trichophyton mentagrophytes
Selecting the right testing method to determine the effectiveness of antifungal disinfectant products targeted to kill Trichophyton mentagrophytes requires a deep knowledge of the fungus, the product’s intended use and applicable international testing standards. Manufacturers can effectively showcase the efficacy of their fungicidal and yeasticidal products by carefully evaluating these factors and seeking expert advice for ensuring safety and compliance in the market. The following factors should be considered while selecting the test standards for a specific product:
- Match your product and purpose
The choice of standard should align with your product type (e.g. medical disinfectants, textiles, consumer goods) and the regulatory requirements of your target market.
- Consider regulatory requirements
Different regions may have specific regulatory preferences for fungicidal testing. For example products intended for the European market may need to comply with EN standards while those for the U.S. market might lean towards ASTM guidelines.
- Evaluate technical and laboratory capabilities
Some testing methods may require specialized equipment or expertise. Assess your in-house capabilities or choose a testing laboratory that is familiar with the standard you intend to use.
- Review the organism-specific guidelines
Each standard has specific guidelines for performing the antifungal test. Ensure that the chosen method is validated for Trichophyton mentagrophytes and reflects the real world conditions under which the product will be used.
Tricks for successful testing
- Stay updated on standards- International standards are periodically reviewed and updated. Keeping up to date with these changes ensures compliance and reflects the latest scientific knowledge in your testing strategy.
- Pilot testing- Before going into full-scale testing, trying out pilot studies can help identify any issues with the testing method or product efficacy.
- Consult a professional- Seeking advice from microbiologists or testing labs can help in choosing the right testing procedures and standards suitable to your specific needs.
Need for testing disinfectants and sanitizers
Sanitizers and disinfectants serve as primary defenses against a wide range of pathogens including fungi like Trichophyton mentagrophytes. It is important to test these products to verify their effectiveness against specific pathogens, ensuring they function as claimed. This helps in preventing fungal infection among the users and also supports manufacturers in product development and compliance with regulatory standards.
International Standards for fungicidal/yeasticidal testing
Several international standards are available for testing the efficacy of antifungal disinfectant products against fungi including Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Some of the most widely recognized standards include:
- EN 1650 is a quantitative suspension test used to evaluate the fungicidal or yeasticidal activity of disinfectants used in the medical area. It’s a benchmark in Europe for product approval and certification.
- EN 14562 is a quantitative carrier test method (phase 2, step 2) used for evaluating the fungicidal or yeasticidal activity of disinfectants on instruments used in medical areas.
- EN 13624 is a quantitative suspension test (phase 2, step 1) used to evaluate the fungicidal and/or yeasticidal activity of disinfectants used in the medical area.
- EN 1657 is a quantitative suspension test (phase 2, step 1) for the evaluation of fungicidal or yeasticidal activity of chemical disinfectants and antiseptics used in veterinary fields.
- AOAC Use Dilution Test (AOAC 955.17) is designed to test the efficacy of disinfectant products that claim to have fungicidal properties against spore forming fungi like Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
At MIS, we globally assist companies and clients in evaluating the efficacy of their products designed for eliminating Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Our extensive range of testing services covers disinfectants, hand sanitizers, and antiseptics.
With a team of expert microbiologists, our testing solutions are designed to meet the unique needs of our clients, delivering precise and accurate outcomes.
For detailed information on testing your disinfectant products for Trichophyton mentagrophytes, get in touch with our experts today.
