Absence of the localized Schwartzman reaction following 6-OH dopamine sympathectomy

1600-0765

Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005

Medicine

This investigation was undertaken to determine whether the presence of catechol amines was necessary for endotoxin to be operative in the production of a localized Schwartzman reaction. Seven rabbits were pretreated with 6–OH dopamine to produce a generalized chemical sympathectomy. An attempt was made to induce a localized Schwartzman reaction in these rabbits as well as in a control group. The rabbits in the experimental group did not develop the classical localized Schwartzman reaction, while those in the control group developed the localized Schwartzman reaction both clinically and histologically. The results of this present investigation indicate that catechol amines must be present for endotoxin to be operative in producing a localized Schwartzman reaction. A theory has been proposed for the possible relationship between catechol amines levels and endotoxin levels in the pathogenesis of the necrotizing gingivitis lesion.

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