Use of Hypochlorous Acid in Infections: Bibliometric Analysis of Scientific Literature

BackgroundHistorically, chemicals such as alcohols, aldehydes, chlorinated compounds and hypochlorous acid have been used to eliminate or inactivate infectious agents. Since bibliometrics is a powerful tool for uncovering scientific literature, we decided to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the literature on the use of hypochlorous acid in infections. Emerging trends and common patterns in research were explored, collaborations and networks were monitored and future directions were predicted. MethodsThe Scopus database was searched for documents published between 1982 and 2024 using the keywords "hypochlorous acid", "infection" and "use". Data analysis was performed using R-Studio 2024.09.0 Build 375 software with a machine learning bibliometric method based on the bibliometrix R package. The most relevant authors were measured by the number and fractional number of documents written. Author productivity was analyzed with Lotkas law. Bradfords law was applied to identify the core of journals focusing on the topic under consideration. The field of mainstream themes included isolated topics (niche themes), new topics (emerging themes), hot topics (engine themes) and core topics (core themes). ResultsA total of 574 documents were found, the vast majority of which were original articles (74%). The annual growth rate was 5.08%. Overall, 424 journals published more than one document. Most of the corresponding authors work in the United States. Neutrophils, animals and hydrogen peroxide are emerging themes, while hypochlorous acid, human, article represent the basic themes. Conclusions/Applications for PracticeThe interests of infection specialists have diversified over time and metabolism, reactive oxygen metabolites, anti-infective agents have been added.