Anti-microbial Properties of Human Wax

Background: Human wax is a mixture of desquamated keratinocytes secreted in outer third of the wall of external auditory canal. The wax produced forms a physiological barrier between the external environment and deep external auditory canal. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of human wax due to its chemical composition have raised considerable debate. Different authors have different views regarding the antimicrobial property of human wax. Aims & Objective: Present study was undertaken to study the antimicrobial property of human wax and to assess its preventive actions against some common flora. Material and Methods: A prospective study of healthy individuals, both males and females, of all age groups, without any pathology in the external and middle auditory canal who presented at outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital in this region and few other private hospitals. Samples were collected from patients and studied for their antimicrobial effect. Results were recorded and analysed. Results: A total of 100 cases were included in the study, of which 52 sterile samples were tested with some common microbial flora. Data obtained was analysed. Conclusion: Variable results have been observed by different authors regarding antimicrobial properties of human wax. Our study highlights the antimicrobial property of human wax and signifies the role of further studies for antibacterial and antifungal role of human wax in diseased auditory canals. Key-Words: Human Wax; Cerumen; Anti-Microbial Properties