Aplicação tópica do mel no controlo da infeção em feridas crónicas: uma revisão sistemática

The study of topical application of honey on wounds has been gaining recognition in infection control field. Considered a dressing patch of easy handling, with distinct properties of anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal local activity, honey has been increasingly used in the treatment of wounds due to is beneficial results in reducing odor, pain and edema. A systematic literature review was carried out to evaluate the effect of topical application of honey on infection control in chronic wounds. The research conducted in electronic databases and manual search took place between the months of February to August 2013, revealing a final sample of 8 studies. Wound infection control was the primary endpoint. Data collections and analysis were conducted by the author and independently verified by a reviewer colleague. As main result we observed a positive action of the use of honey in the infection control of chronic wounds, particularly in leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers and post-operative wounds. This evidence points to an effective reduction of pathogenic microorganisms in the wound bed, observing also a decrease in the swelling, odor and local exudates, resulting in a significant improvement of the reduction in the infectious process installed. Honey dressings demonstrated a potential positive activity in infection control in chronic wounds but the low expression of the evaluated studies did not allow us other considerations. More evidence is needed to guide clinical practice.