Abstract
0.5 gram daily, totalling of 40 grams on the average of streptomycin was given to 24 cases of chronic bone and joint tuberculosis and a follow up study for three month period was made. The results are as follows:
In 12 cases in which the destruction of vertebral body was shown in high degree by x-ray, none showed a good result (improved in 25% and no change or made worse in 75%).
Our study confirmed the generally held view that streptomycin is not effective for chronic type of bone and joint tuberculosis. It did not benefit this condition from stand point of closure of fistulae, x-ray findings, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. However, concerning the temperature, bodyweight and appetite it was found that there seemed to have no difference between the acute and chronic conditions.
The over-all results are as follows:
These data represent the results of 3 month treatment with streptomycin. In order to reach the final conclusion it is necessary to carry out observations for a longer duration with a larger number of cases. However, it is felt that from our study one can evaluate as to what effect streptomycin may render in the treatment of chronic bone and joint tuberculosis.
