ELSEWHERE IN this issue of The Journal (page 1235) a correspondent directs attention to the development of moniliasis of the soft palate and pharynx, sometimes fatal, after the use of antibiotic lozenges. Although antibiotic lozenges enjoy a degree of popularity in the local treatment of diseases of the throat, it is known that effective concentration of the contained medication cannot be maintained for long periods on the surface of the tonsils or pharynx because of the continual washing effect of saliva. There is no such response as rendering the throat sterile, or even antiseptic, except possibly for a short time.
In superficial infections of the throat, local administration of antibiotic and chemotherapeutic agents may be effective. However, their value diminishes if the micro-organisms have penetrated into the tissues. Actually, once micro-organisms have established themselves below the surface, and an abscess has formed, locally applied medicaments have little