The Quantitative Estimation of the Removal of Bacteria from the Blood by the Various Organs of the Immunized Animal

Summary By a method of constant intravenous infusion of bacteria combined with the determination of the numbers of bacteria in the circulation at various sites by venous catheterization, further quantitative data have been obtained concerning factors influencing the removal of bacteria from the blood stream. Total canine splanchnic removal of Klebsiella pneumoniae type B averaged 42 ± 15% (S.D.). There was no significant removal of organisms in the pulmonary circulation. During a second infusion of K. pneumoniae type B given after a two to four week interval, the average splanchnic removal rose to 77 ± 11% (S.D.). The degree of removal in the pulmonary area may have been significant. The splanchnic removal of K. pneumoniae type B rose abruptly to 83 ± 16% (S.D.) following intravenous administration of homologous plasma obtained from immunized dogs. Normal dog plasma (given 1.5–3 hours prior to the immune plasma) failed to affect significantly the splanchnic removal during this period. In dogs given a K. pneumoniae type B infusion two weeks after having received plasma obtained from an immunized dog, splanchnic removal averaged 70 ± 10% (S.D.) and was not altered by administration of additional immune dog plasma.