Two cases of recurrent perianal suppuration are described in which the underlying pathology is believed to be pilonidal sinus disease affecting the perianal skin directly. This has given rise to intersphincteric fibrosis and, in one case, a subcutaneous track almost completely encircling the anus. The pathogenesis of the condition and its possible relationship to previous surgery are discussed.

We report a patient with chronic bronchiectasis who developed systemic vasculitis. The patient was initially treated with immunosuppression; however, the addition of antibiotic therapy improved control of her vasculitis and the need for immunosuppression was reduced. Chronic bronchial suppuration may have an aetiological role in the pathogenesis of this condition.

Two cases of pure congenital dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts are presented. One patient developed amyloidosis secondary to suppuration, and had isolated cysts in the renal medulla. The position of congenital dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts compared with cysts in the liver and its association with ;cystic' diseases of the kidneys is discussed.

The temporal bones of 4 deceased individuals, with concomitant chronic otitis media are studied. The various histopathological changes in the middle ear cleft are examined: suppuration, polyps, granulation tissue. The possibilities of spontaneous healing of a perforated TM and the indications of surgical treatment are discussed.

The struggle against sepsis is as old as man. Primitive man believed that infections were inflicted upon him by the gods or by evil spirits. The Bible reflects this belief in that the boils of the plagues of Egypt were brought about under the Lord's direction, and Job's boils were due to Satan's ministrations.' The Hippocratic School made the first attempt to deal with the surgical treatment of...

Background Abdominal wall defects repair using prosthetic material is currently considered as the best available solution for most incisional hernias. Postoperatory suppuration remains the most frequent and fearful complication after this kind of intervention therefore imposing prevention methods. The aim of our study was to evaluate this serious yet controllable complication in the situation o...