Desenvolvimento de um hidrogel à base de celulose e quitosana contendo Óleo Essencial de Melaleuca no tratamento de onicomicose causada por dermatófito e levedura

Abstract

Onychomycosis is an infection caused by dermatophytic fungi and yeasts that affects 20% of the global population and accounts for 50% of all nail diseases. Currently, alternative therapies under investigation for the treatment of onychomycosis include the use of essential oils as potential antifungal agents. Objective: To develop a film[1]forming hydrogel combining hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and chitosan, associated with Tea Tree Essential Oil (TTO) at concentrations of 1%, 2%, and 5%, for the treatment of onychomycosis. Methodology: For material characterization, the following analyses were performed: Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TG), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). For microbiological analyses, sensitivity testing was conducted by determining the inhibition zone and comparing it to standard antifungal agents (antifungigram), along with microbial growth inhibition analysis through optical density measurement, which assesses microbial growth in liquid medium by turbidity reading. Results: FTIR analysis showed no chemical interaction between the components, which is important to ensure the release of TTO for therapeutic purposes. DSC analysis indicated that increasing the TTO concentration reduced the interaction between TTO and the hydrogel components (HPMC and chitosan), facilitating the evaporation of TTO. TG analysis revealed that TTO concentration did not affect the thermal properties of the samples. In the microbiological analysis, the 2% and 5% TTO concentrations exhibited antifungal activity, which was more pronounced against yeasts. Conclusion: Considering these findings, compounded formulations based on cellulose and chitosan with Tea Tree Essential Oil for nail film formation are potential tools in the treatment of onychomycosis caused by dermatophytes or yeasts. In addition to being a natural, low[1]cost, and low-toxicity therapeutic alternative, future clinical trials are crucially important to confirm safety and efficacy