Intraperitoneal noxythiolin in faecal peritonitis

Abstract

Noxythiolin is a simple chemical compound which undergoes slow decomposition to liberate free formaldehyde. It is relatively non-toxic when given intraperitoneally to animals and has a high therapeutic ratio. When a lethal Gram-negative peritonitis has been induced in guinea-pigs with Proteus and coliform organisms, intraperitoneal injection of noxythiolin offers significant protection. In humans with faecal peritonitis, the use of noxythiolin intraperitoneally reduces the morbidity and mortality of the condition. In this reported series of 23 cases, only 3 deaths occurred, 2 of which were from pulmonary embolism. It is suggested that this simple substance is a useful addition to our therapeutic armamentarium in all cases of peritonitis.