NZOZ Medi-Spatz

Background: Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a naturally occurring molecule that plays a key role in host defence, exhibiting broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses and fungi while maintaining an excellent safety profile for human tissues. Its utility has been demonstrated in numerous studies in wound care, perioperative antisepsis and more recently in nasopharyngeal sprays and inhalation applications. Aim: The purpose of this study was to provide an overview of the current and potential uses of hypochlorous acid in ophthalmic practice. Materials and methods: A comprehensive narrative review of the literature was conducted using the PubMed, Web of Science, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, Scopus and Embase databases. The search strategy was based on the following combination of key terms: (“hypochlorous acid” OR HOCl) AND (ophthalmology OR keratitis OR “ocular surgery” OR “meibomian gland dysfunction” OR “dry eye” OR blepharitis OR ocular OR “ocular surface” OR “eye infections” OR conjunctivitis). Results: HOCl demonstrated broad antimicrobial activity in several studies, with meaningful reductions in bacterial load, rapid in vitro fungicidal effects and improvement in clinical parameters of blepharitis, dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction. Antiseptic efficacy relative to povidone-iodine varied, with some studies showing inferior perioperative performance. Across all reports, HOCl was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events and consistently better patient comfort than povidone-iodine. Conclusions: Hypochlorous acid is a safe, well-tolerated antiseptic with potential benefits in eyelid hygiene, dry eye disease, blepharitis and as an adjunct in ocular infections. While its antimicrobial efficacy is promising, it is inconsistent compared with povidone-iodine and it should currently be viewed as a complementary rather than a replacement agent. Further standardized clinical studies are needed to clarify its optimal role.

Introduction and objective: Athletes practising outdoor sports are particularly exposed to prolonged and intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma and non-melanoma types. Despite growing awareness of these risks, the effectiveness of photoprotection in this population remains insufficient, mainly due to irregular sunscreen use, incorrect application habits, and numerous environmental and organisational barriers. The aim of this review is to present the current state of knowledge on the effectiveness of sun protection methods used by outdoor athletes and to assess their role in skin cancer prevention. Review methods: All data were collected from publicly available sources. This article's databases were accessed via PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. A brief description of the state of knowledge: Research shows that athletes often use sun protection incorrectly - applying too little sunscreen, skipping reapplication and inconsistently using physical barriers like UPF clothing or headgear. Long-distance runners, cyclists, skiers and water sports enthusiasts are most exposed to UV radiation. Effective protection is further hampered by intense sweating, reflection of rays from water or snow, sporting pressure and concerns about comfort. Although awareness is growing, it rarely becomes routine. Educational programmes, coach support and technologies such as UV sensors or mobile apps show promising results. Summary: Effective protection requires a multidimensional approach combining education, behavioural support and UV policies in sports settings. Best results come from using both chemical and physical methods, but only when applied regularly and correctly. Technology and stronger involvement of sports organisations can improve adherence. With rising skin cancer rates, sport-specific, practical UV-prevention guidelines are urgently needed.