What are the uses of potassium permanganate?
Jun 26, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, potassium permanganate is a strong oxidizing agent. Its uses include disinfection of skin and mucous membranes, wound debridement, treatment of fungal infections, gastric lavage for detoxification, and adjunctive treatment of anorectal diseases. When using potassium permanganate, the concentration and duration of application must be strictly controlled to avoid mucosal burns or skin staining caused by high concentrations. If allergic reactions or local irritation occur, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.
Under normal circumstances, potassium permanganate is a strong oxidizing agent. Its functions include disinfection of skin and mucous membranes, wound debridement, treatment of fungal infections, gastric lavage for detoxification, and auxiliary treatment for anorectal diseases. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Disinfection of Skin and Mucous Membranes
It can be used for disinfection of skin wounds, ulcers, or mucous membranes, such as the vulva and anus. Its strong oxidizing property can destroy the protein structures of bacteria and viruses, thus achieving bactericidal effects. A 1:5000 concentration solution is commonly used for soaking or rinsing, for conditions such as vulvitis and perianal abscesses.
2. Wound Debridement
Potassium permanganate solution can be used to rinse contaminated wounds, burns, or scalds to help remove necrotic tissue and bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of infection. Care should be taken to avoid using too high a concentration, which may burn normal tissues.
3. Treatment of Fungal Infections
It is commonly used to treat cutaneous fungal infections such as tinea pedis (athlete's foot) and tinea cruris (jock itch). It inhibits fungal proliferation by oxidizing and destroying the fungal cell membrane and enzyme systems. A 1:5000 solution can be prepared for wet compresses or soaking the affected area, and combining it with antifungal drugs can enhance effectiveness.
4. Gastric Lavage for Detoxification
In emergency treatment of acute poisoning, it can be used for gastric lavage in cases of certain poisons such as organophosphorus pesticides and barbiturates. Its oxidizing properties can decompose some toxins and reduce their absorption. However, it should not be used for highly corrosive poisons such as strong acids or alkalis, as this may worsen mucosal damage.
5. Auxiliary Treatment for Anorectal Diseases
It is used in postoperative care or conservative treatment of anorectal diseases such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures. Sitz baths can relieve local inflammation and edema, promote wound healing, and simultaneously alleviate symptoms such as pain and itching.
When using potassium permanganate, the concentration and duration of action must be strictly controlled to avoid mucosal burns or skin staining caused by high concentrations. If allergic reactions or local irritation occur, use should be stopped immediately and medical attention sought.
