Topical metronidazole for the treatment of wound odor: a review of the literature

Abstract

Unpleasant odor is a frequent and distressing concern of persons who have wounds, as well as their family members and caregivers. In some instances, standard nursing interventions such as increasing the frequency of dressing changes will not be sufficient to address wound malodor. A review of the literature to summarize research findings about topical metronidazole used to decrease wound odor was conducted. Fifteen (15) studies were identified: seven case reports/series; six descriptive longitudinal studies; and two controlled clinical trials. Metronidazole was used as a 1% solution or, more frequently, as a 0.75% or 0.80% gel. Two reported adverse effects were skin irritation and a burning sensation. Generally, topical metronidazole was reported to result in a reduction or eradication of wound odor, decrease in wound drainage, improvement in wound appearance, decrease in surrounding cellulitis, halting of tissue necrosis, and decrease in pain. Although nurses report success with sprinkling crushed metronidazole pills on wounds, no published reports of this method of topical application are available. Topical metronidazole may be considered as an option for the management of malodorous wounds and additional randomized controlled trials with adequate sample sizes and comparison to products noted to decrease odor are warranted. While topical metronidazole for the treatment of malodorous wounds presently is off-label, perhaps such studies will result in the addition of malodorous wounds to the list of its indications.