R. Randolph Bradham

Dirofilaria immitis (Dog Heartworm) as a Pulmonary Lesion in Humans

Dirofilaria immitis, the dog heartworm, has been identified in the pulmonary granulomas of 5 patients from the greater Charleston area; this is the largest series of such cases from one medical center. The patients had no pulmonary symptoms. On roentgenogram the lesions were all about 2 cm in size, of uniform light opacity, and located near the pleural surface. Thoractomy was performed in each instance because of the possiblity of carcinoma. The association of granuloma formation, pulmonary infarct, and eosinophilic infiltration led to the suspicion of dirofilaria, which was confirmed in each case.

The Cardiac Lymphatics

Abstract The cardiac lymphatic system is well developed. Investigations related to the lymphatics of the heart are recorded as early as the seventeenth century, and with improved techniques, many studies have produced new knowledge of the system during this century. Controversy remains, however, regarding the presence of lymphatics in certain areas of the heart such as the atrioventricular valves. Many investigators believe that malfunction of the cardiac lymphatics might be a factor in disease states for which the pathogenesis is still unknown. This review outlines the history, anatomy, and physiology of the cardiac lymphatics and their possible relationship to cardiac disease.

Bilateral pulmonary nodules caused by Dirofilaria immitis

The unusual case of bilateral lung nodules caused by Dirofilaria immitis in a 44-year-old woman is presented. A brief discussion of the life cycle of this parasite, the clinical and epidemiological features of human infestation, and the roentgenographic and laboratory findings is given.

A method of producing bacteremia in dogs

Summary A method of producing a bacteremia consistently in dogs by injecting intravenously one billion Staphylococcus aureus organisms is described. Cultures used were fresh. Cells were suspended in sterile saline to eliminate toxic products of metabolism. Thirty dog experiments were carried out. These dogs were divided into three equal groups. All groups were inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus organisms, the phage type differing for each group. The most immediate and consistent results were obtained in dogs inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus, phage type 80/81. This method has been found to be an effective means of studying the effects of circulating organisms on vascular prostheses. The mortality rate is not prohibitive.