Effect of Trypsin Inhibitors on Shwartzman Phenomenon.

Abstract

The conventional Shwartzman Phenomenon (SP) was produced in 160 rabbits by Escherichia coli endotoxin. Trypsin inhibitors administered intravenously at about the time of the provocative injection, partially or completely inhibited the SP. There was no effect when the inhibitors were administered mixed with the endotoxin skin preparatory dose, or intravenously at time of skin preparation. The results suggest that proteolytic enzymes are involved in the SP. These enzymes may produce tissue changes directly or through release of histamine, heparin, serotonin and/or activation of plasma kinins, factors which affect vascular tonicity, permeability, and the coagulation process.