Before Erythromycin ointment, what was historically used for prophylaxis of gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum?

Silver nitrate was historically used for the prophylaxis of gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum in newborns. This practice emerged as a response to the significant risk of infection from Neisseria gonorrhoeae during childbirth, particularly when an infected mother gave birth. Silver nitrate works as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, and when applied to the eyes of newborns, it can help prevent infections that might arise from exposure to the bacteria present in the birth canal.

The use of silver nitrate became a standard procedure in the late 19th century and was recommended by various health organizations for the protection of newborns against gonococcal infection and potential blindness. While effective, silver nitrate could cause chemical conjunctivitis and has since been replaced by more effective and less irritating options, such as erythromycin ointment.

Other options like antibiotic drops may not have been sufficiently available or standardized at the time for this specific purpose, while vitamin K is primarily used to prevent hemorrhagic disease in newborns and does not serve any role in treating or preventing eye infections. Saline solution, while useful for various ophthalmic procedures, would not confer the antibacterial properties needed to prevent gonococcal ophthalmia. Thus, the historical context and the intended use of silver