A CASE OF SUBACUTE BACTERIAL ENDOCARDITIS WITH APPARENT CURE

This case is reported to demonstrate the occasional value of sulfonamide derivatives in subacute bacterial endocarditis. Moreover, in this instance the superiority of the sulfonamide derivatives as compared to other agents in this disease is brought into relief by failure attending antecedent therapy.

History.—  Miss P. F. was first seen by me privately on Oct. 13, 1939. Her chief complaint was that of a swollen, tender area on the left foot of six days' duration. There was also a history of a rise in temperature to 102 F. in the afternoon, which had originated seven weeks previously in August 1939. Preceding this low grade temperature, gastrointestinal symptoms had developed in June 1939. These were dyspepsia, belching, constipation and anorexia. A loss of 17 pounds (7.7 Kg.) began at this time. The patient also mentioned recent anorexia and night sweats. Her past history was that of a chronic cardiac patient. She