Reticulo-Endothelial Blockade in Experimental Chagas' Disease

Abstract

As a result of histopathological studies the importance of the reticulo-endothelial system (RES) in Trypanosoma cruzi infections has been recognized for many years. Some experimental procedures, such as cortisone administration and x-irradiation, have been shown to be effective in reducing resistance to the parasite. On the other hand, certain classic procedures designed to influence the course of the disease by modification of the reticuloendothelial response have not, in general, been proved satisfactory. Splenectomy has been consistently reported to have no influence on the infection in mice, rats, guinea pigs, or dogs, and most experiments in the use of reticulo-endothelial blockade have been inconclusive. The literature has been reviewed