Effects of cyclophosphamide and ceftriaxone on gastrointestinal colonization of mice by Candida albicans

Abstract

Adult male Crl:CD1 (ICR) mice were fed chow containing Candida albicans to induce sustained gastrointestinal colonization by the yeast. Groups of mice were rendered neutropenic with cyclophosphamide and subsequently received ceftriaxone, while other groups received normal saline and served as controls. Stool cultures were obtained immediately before and at the end of treatment. The administration of cyclophosphamide substantially increased the C. albicans counts in the stools of mice. The addition of ceftriaxone to the cyclophosphamide regimen did not significantly increase the level of gastrointestinal colonization by C. albicans. There was no evidence of Candida dissemination to internal organs.