title: An appraisal of Impregon as a deterrent of domestic fungus growth.
abstract: Impregon brand of tetrachlorsalicylanilide (TCSA) has been profferred widely as a household fungistatic agent, although its value remains unproved. To assess its effects, this agent was used as a laundry and paint additive and as a treatment for burlap rug backing; after recommended applications of Impregon, coded replicate materials were inoculated with mixed suspensions of fungus particles. No difference was evident in fungus growth points on fabric swatches washed in tap water with and without Impregon. However, growth on both of these was significantly greater than on samples laundered in tap water using only a commercial soap or liquid detergent. Fungus soiling of burlap was not clearly diminished by prescribed applications of Impregon solution 3 mo previously. Similarly, the addition of this agent to paint did not suppress fungus growth on Masonite plaques to which it had been applied. However, comparable levels of Impregon incorporated into agar media substantially inhibited spore germination. These findings suggest that the bioavailability of TCSA is insufficient to provide desired household antifungal effects when Impregon is used in accord with current recommendations.
mesh_terms: D000391:Air Microbiology; D001232:Aspergillus fumigatus / Q000254:growth & development; D002963:Cladosporium / Q000254:growth & development; D003470:Culture Media; D005658:Fungi / Q000254:growth & development*; D006794:Household Articles; D006796:Household Work; D013172:Spores, Fungal / Q000254:growth & development; D013784:Textiles
chemical_list: D003470:Culture Media