BACTERIA PATHOGENIC FOR ANIMALS, NOT FOR MAN 205 



Bacterium Termo (Cohn). This was a name given to a 

 form of microorganism found in decomposing albuminous 

 material, and was supposed to be one specific germ. Hauser, 

 in 1885, found three different distinct bacilli which he grouped 

 under the common name of proteus, which have the putrefy- 

 ing properties ascribed to Bacillus termo. 



Proteus Vulgaris. Origin. In putrid animal matter, in 

 the feces, and in water. 



Form. Small rods, slightly curved, of varying lengths, often 

 in twisted chains, having long cilia or flagella. 



Properties. Very motile, and very soon liquefying gelatin; 

 forms hydrogen sulphid gas; causes putrefaction in meat. 



Growth. Growth very rapid, best at 24 C.; is facultative 

 aerobic. 



Gelatin Plates. Yellowish-brown, irregular colonies, with 

 prolongations in every direction, forming all sorts of figures; an 

 impression preparation shows these spider-leg processes to con- 

 sist of bacilli in regular order. 



Stab-culture. The gelatin soon liquid, a gray layer on the 

 surface, but the chief part of the culture in small crumbs at the 

 bottom. 



Pathogenesis. Rabbits and guinea-pigs injected subcutane- 

 ously die quickly; a form of toxemia, hemorrhagic condition of 

 lungs and intestines present. When neurin is injected previ- 

 ously, the animals do not die. This ptomain is supposed to be 

 generated by the Proteus vulgaris. 



Proteus Mirabilis (Hauser). Differs from Proteus vul- 

 garis in that the gelatin is less rapidly liquefied. Found also 

 in putrid material. 



Proteus Zenkeri (Hauser). Does not liquefy gelatin; 

 otherwise similar to the other two. 



