[Anaerobic pathogens in gynecologic samples. Incidence and clinical significance]

In 276 gynecological cases the ratio of anaerobic and aerobic germs was investigated. Cultures took place under criteria sufficient for anaerobic and aerobic bacteria as well. Aerobic germs were predominating (55.4%), while anaerobic germs (bacteria) were to be found in 35.5% of cases. The breakdown reveals Bacteroides in 72%. The significance of anaerobic germs (bacteria) derives both from their pathogenicity and their frequency and depends additionally on the origin of the samples. In samples derived from the cervix or the vagina it must be considered anaerobics being a normal finding having been detected in 38.5 and 40% respectively in the own material. In bartholinitis or abscess of the labia and in intrauterine devices 48,4 and 12.5% anaerobic germs are to be found. In pyosalpinx and tubo-ovarian abscess all anaerobic cultures were negative. The same was true for 80% of aerobic cultures of the same origin. These findings are most likely due to a preceding antibiotic therapy. In contrast anaerobics constantly were to be found in abscess of cul-de-sac and pyometra. These facts should be taken into consideration in selecting an appropriate antibiotic therapy.