Thursday, June 18, 2015

The Various 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.

In medical practice there is extensive use of the solution in management of cancer patients. It is particularly important in screening for cervical cancer. Staining of the cervix and upper vaginal wall is done under examination done using an instrument known as a colposcope. The normal tissues stain deeply with the brown colour while the suspicious areas remain paler. Biopsy specimens are taken from the paler areas.

Patients suffering from Graves disease, a severe form of hyperthyroidism, may benefit from a small dose of the compound when undergoing surgery. It has been suggested by some experts that the compound may reduce blood loss associated with thyroidectomy. This effect is not seen in patients that have euthyroid hormone levels or in those 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.

In the marine and aquarium industry, the compound is vital for macroalgae growth and for the survival of coral reef inhabitants. This effect is believed to be the result of a reduction in the number of unwanted bacteria and parasites within the same habitat. The other major benefit is the expansion of polyps and prevention of coral bleaching in instances where the light intensity is abnormally high.

Excessive amounts of lugols may cause harm to body cells to varying extents. High concentrations have been reported to cause destruction of the stomach mucosa during endoscopic examination. However, it should be noted that these are rare incidences.




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