Space disinfection using TiO2 photocatalyst reduces the incidence of febrile neutropenia in cancer patients

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Febrile neutropenia (FN) is life-threatening condition, and airborne microorganisms have been identified as one of the potential transmission routes. In this study, our objective was to evaluate spatial sterilization using photocatalytic oxidative decomposition reactions is effective to prevent FN in patients undergoing cancer treatment. Methods One air purifier equipped a mechanism that irradiates photocatalytic platinum-added titanium dioxide with LED (LED-TiO2 device) was installed per 21.5–35 m3 in hospital rooms to investigate changes in the incidence of FN and the number of airborne microorganisms. Results Airborne microorganisms in the hospital rooms matched those responsible for nosocomial infections. The incidence of FN was significantly reduced after installation of the LED-TiO2 device (9/13 vs 2/12, P = 0.015). The LED-TiO2 device decreased the number of airborne microorganisms in patient-free rooms by approximately 75% after 2 hours (P < 0.001). When patient was in the room, the number of airborne microorganisms increased with medical procedure. However, after 20 minutes after procedure, the number of airborne microorganisms was approximately 50% lower than without the device room (p = 0.019). Conclusions The LED-TiO2 device successfully achieved spatial disinfection in hospital rooms, and reduced the incidence of FN. Spatial disinfection using photocatalysts is considered an effective new infection prevention measure in patients with severe neutropenia undergoing cancer treatment.