Thursday, June 18, 2015

Some Uses Of Lugols Iodine Solution

By Elaine Guthrie


Iodine is available in many different forms. Since it was first prepared in1829 by a French physician, Lugols iodine solution, continues to play a major role in scientific research and everyday use. The solution is prepared by dissolving elemental iodine and the compound potassium iodide in water. It is diluted to various concentrations depending on the intended use. It is also known as iodine potassium iodide Markodine or Strong solution.

For topical use such as in the case of minor wounds on the skin there are several formulations available. The main types used include ointment, gel or tincture. Commonly, these formulations are mixed with another ingredient known as povidone which serves to increase the effectiveness. The tincture is also said to be effective in emergency disinfection of water. The mechanism of action is not clear in this case.

Lugols is widely used in biochemical experiments. The most notable is the testing of starch presence in organic molecules. When a compound containing starch is placed in the presence of iodine there is a characteristic blue black reaction. This is due to the interaction of the compound with polysaccharide molecules found in starch. A similar reaction is seen with a disease known as amyloidosis.

The solution is widely used in cervical cancer screening. In this test, it is applied on the vaginal wall and on the cervix under the exposure of an instrument known as a colposcope. Since normal vaginal and cervical tissues have a high amount of glycogen, they will stain brown. Abnormal or suspicious tissues do not stain adequately and appear paler. It is the light staining areas that are used to provide biopsy specimens for histological examination.

Markodine is used in the management of selected patients with Graves disease as they undergo surgery (thyroidectomy). Graves disease is a severe form of hyperthyroidism. It has been established through research that when administered intraoperatively, the solution reduces the amount of blood loss. This benefit may not be seen in patients whose thyroid function is normal or those that are on antithyroid medication.

For many years, Lugols was used in the treatment of gout. With the advent of newer and more effective therapies, it is no longer used as commonly. In the treatment of hyperthyroidism it was considered a first line therapy but has been dropped over time due to the side effect of inhibiting thyroid hormone effect (also known as Wolff Chaikoff effect). This often leads to hypothyroidism.

The element iodine is required for the growth of macroalgae and coral reef inhabitants. As a result, it is widely used in the marine aquarium industry. The role of the solution is thought to be in the removal of unwanted parasites and bacteria. Other benefits include enhancement of polyp expansion and the prevention of coral bleaching in the presence of increased light intensity.

When used in excess, the compound may have some unwanted effects on the body. At low dilutions, it is said to have an irritating and corrosive effect on the stomach mucosa. This may be encountered when conducting endoscopic examinations. Generally, however, it is regarded as being safe.




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