Which term describes substances that inhibit growth of micro-organisms on living tissue?

Which term describes substances that inhibit growth of micro-organisms on living tissue?

• A. Antiseptic
• B. Antibiotic
• C. Disinfectant
• D. Sterilant

Answer: (A)

Antiseptics are substances applied to living tissue to inhibit growth or kill microorganisms while being safe for skin and mucous membranes at appropriate concentrations. They’re used to prevent infection on wounds or skin, making them the best match for “substances that inhibit growth of micro-organisms on living tissue.” Disinfectants, by contrast, are designed for inanimate surfaces and can be too harsh for living tissue. Sterilants aim to destroy all life and spores on surfaces or instruments, achieving sterility rather than just inhibiting growth on tissue. Antibiotics target microorganisms inside the body (though some can be used topically), but the term is broader and not defined by use on living tissue to the same extent as antiseptics. So the correct choice is antiseptic.

Antiseptics are substances applied to living tissue to inhibit growth or kill microorganisms while being safe for skin and mucous membranes at appropriate concentrations. They’re used to prevent infection on wounds or skin, making them the best match for “substances that inhibit growth of micro-organisms on living tissue.” Disinfectants, by contrast, are designed for inanimate surfaces and can be too harsh for living tissue. Sterilants aim to destroy all life and spores on surfaces or instruments, achieving sterility rather than just inhibiting growth on tissue. Antibiotics target microorganisms inside the body (though some can be used topically), but the term is broader and not defined by use on living tissue to the same extent as antiseptics. So the correct choice is antiseptic.