[The effect of taurolin on endogenous immunity and pathogen elimination in human peritonitis]

The influence of taurolin on phagocytosis-related defense functions and on the elimination of bacteria has been investigated in a controlled study. Particle opsonisation, a prerequisite for sufficient phagocytosis, was undisturbed in presence of up to 0.1% taurolin. Intraabdominal taurolin application did not diminish the leukocyte influx into the abdominal cavity. Opsonic capacity of peritoneal exudate was low in the taurolin group. These exudates contained more severe bacterial contamination, suggesting that this deficit was due to enhanced specific consumption of opsonins. Taurolin treatment resulted in a marked reduction of bacterial growth. Thus the substance provides antiseptic capacities without afflicting the physiological defense systems.