[The role of prostaglandins in the pathogenesis of the Shwartzman phenomenon].
Schwartzman's phenomena, namely local and generalized reactions (SLR and SGR) were reproduced in two groups of rabbits weighing 1.5-2.5 kg. Use was made of endotoxin S. typhimurium obtained by the method of Bowen. Before endotoxin injection half of the animals of each group were given indomethacin (10 mg/kg). The coagulograms and thromboelastograms were examined after each endotoxin injection. Light and electron microscopy were used to study the animals' kidneys. Animals with the SLR and SGR demonstrated marked changes in the coagulogram and thromboelastogram characteristic of the development of the disseminated intravascular blood coagulation syndrome (DIC-syndrome). Animals' kidneys, particularly those in SGR, manifested gross structural and ultrastructural disorders, pronounced changes in microcirculation. Administration of indomethacin prevented the development of the DIC-syndrome. Besides, microscopic examination of the kidneys did not show fibrin release to the microcirculatory bloodstream. The data obtained indicate that the changes in hemostasis occurring in the SLR and SGR and microcirculatory disorders in the kidneys are linked with a dramatic intensification of prostaglandin synthesis, that develops in response to endotoxin injection.