Host Parasite Relations in Initiation of Infection: II. Hyperglycemia and Stress in Experimental Infection with L. Monocytogenes.

The effects of applied stimuli on the initiation of experimental infection were studied on lemmings, rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs. Stress was simulated by injection of cortisone acetate, or by trauma, heat, or cold. L. monocytogenes was the organism used for experimental infection. The results showed that the course of the infection was influenced in favour of the invading microorganism by the stress agents used. Hyperglycemia was present in the animals that developed the infection to overt disease. This suggests that hyperglycemia may be the trigger mechanism.