Effects of Electroacupuncture on the Evolution of Fecal Peritonitis in Mice

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

There are few observations on the impact of electroacupuncture on the evolution of infectious diseases.

Objective:

The aim of this trial was to study the effect of electroacupuncture on the evolution of fecal peritonitis in mice.

Subjects:

Ten mice were submitted to acupuncture and electroacupuncture treatment immediately after induction of fecal peritonitis, and the evolution of infection was compared to mice receiving the same acupuncture but no electrostimulation.

Setting

Experiments were developed at the Infectious Diseases Unit, of the Federal University of Espirito Santo, in Vitóra, ES, Brazil.

Intervention:

Twenty Swiss male mice received an intraperitoneal injection of a suspension of homologous feces (1:9 dilution). Needles were inserted in ST 36 and GB 30 acupoints in all animals. One group (EA group, 10 mice) received electrostimulation (30 minutes, 2Hz, 3 mA) and the other group of mice (control group, 10 mice) did not receive electrostimulation.

Main Outcome Measures:

Leukocytes were counted in the peritoneal cavity of each mouse 24 hours after fecal inoculation. Two weeks later the mice were euthanized for counting and measurement of peritoneal abscesses.

Results:

The immediate manifestations were similar in both groups and no mortality resulting from infection was observed. Compared to controls, total leukocytes and neutrophils inside the peritoneal cavity were significantly higher in the EA group 24 hours after fecal inoculation, and the number and diameter of peritoneal abscesses were significantly less in the EA group 2 weeks after peritonitis induction.

Conclusions:

EA increased the resistance of mice against polymicrobial peritonitis, as indicated by the increased number of peritoneal leukocytes and the reduced number and diameter of intraperitoneal abscesses evaluated 2 weeks later.