The New England journal of medicine
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Because others had described a lack of the enzyme adenosine deaminase as associated with severe combined immunodeficiency, we surveyed kindreds with infants affected with such an immunodeficiency. Three infants in two families with severe combined immunodeficiency were found to have no detectable erythrocyte adenosine deaminase. ⋯ Normal immunologic function was established in both children, but the deficiency of adenosine deaminase persisted in their erythrocytes. The enzyme deficiency did not impair the successful establishment of normal humoral and cellular immunity by transplants of bone-marrow cells from siblings who were either normal or heterozygous for adenosine deaminase deficiency.
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The concept that hysterectomy is of value in the management of septic abortion induced by instillation of soap or phenolic antiseptics into the uterus is challenged. Nineteen out of 20 such cases with renal failure were managed with intensive antibiotic therapy, peritoneal dialysis and an absolute minimun of surgical intervention. Seventeen patients recovered, with normal renal function. Of the 11 known to be subsequently exposed to conception seven have achieved normal pregnancies.