A New Sulphonamide (Sulphonamide E.O.S.): Its Pharmacology, Chemotherapy, and Curative Value in Meningococcal Meningitis

Abstract

Sulfonamide ethyl-a-sulfonate (E.O.S.), first described by Green and Coplans (J. Path. Bact. 50: 507, 1940), has been used by Mutch in 130 clinical cases. It is readily sol. in water, nearly tasteless and rarely produces any unpleasant effects. Neutral solns. can be given orally, rectally or intraven. In animals it controls acute infections due to Streptococcus pyogenes, Type III pneumococcus and chronic urinary infections by Eberthella typhosa and B. paratyphosus A. Its outstanding effect in acute meningitis is described in detail. Before sulfonamides were used (1914-17) the mortality in 5,306 cases of meningitis was 65%. In 1940, first quarter, when sulfonamides were generally used, the mortality in 4,388 cases was 23.7%. Among 120 meningitis cases observed personally by Banks in 1940, when sulfapyridine and other sulfonamides were given, the mortality was 10%. Wrexham (Lancet 1940, 2: 216) reported 154 cases treated with sulfonamides with a mortality of 12.3%. Mutch now reports 34 cases treated with sulfonamide E.O.S. with a mortality of only 9%. Case reports and 8 statistical tables.