The generalized Shwartzman reaction and Haemophilus infections in pigs.

Abstract

Four pigs were injected intravenously twice at a 24-hour interval with disintegrated cells of Haemophilus parainfluenzae and killed 24 h later. Two of the pigs developed bilateral renal cortical necrosis (BCN) and renal and extrarenal vascular lesions characterized by fibrinous thrombosis and fibrinoid degeneration. The BCN is interpreted as being the result of a generalized Shwartzman reaction to bacterial endotoxin. The experiment supports the view that the vascular lesions accompanying outbreaks of Haemophilus infections in swine are due to a generalized Shwartzman reaction.