Gastrointestinal decontamination and reverse isolation in healthy monkeys

• Published in: Infection 1981-05, Vol.9 (3), p.142-148
• Main Authors: Hendriks, W. D. H., de Vast, J., van der Waaij, D.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0300-8126; 1439-0973
• DOI: 10.1007/BF01642122

In order to prevent infections after irradiation and bone marrow transplantation, rhesus monkeys were subjected to strict reverse isolation. They were given oral nonabsorbable antibiotics in order to eliminate their microflora. The antibiotic combination was selected on the basis of a sensitivity test and was added to the liquid food supply. After the additional antibiotics were discontinued colonizations were found. In contrast to colonizations persisting from the first day of treatment, these were fairly easy to suppress. All colonizations found after Day 7 were considered a break in isolation. It was concluded that a germ-free status had not been achieved and an extreme microflora suppression was all that had been accomplished. Apart from a 5% decrease in the haematocrit, no effect of the decontamination was seen on parameters for liver and kidney functions. The antibiotic concentration in the faeces was well above the amount indicated by the sensitivity test.