Failure to Isolate Mycoplasmas from Upper Small Intestine of Man

A screening investigation for mycoplasmas in upper small intestine was carried out in 65 patients, normal or affected by either biliary tract disorders or malabsorptive states. Mucosal biopsies, duodeno-jejunal fluid aspirates and biliary secretions were cultured for mycoplasma growth on appropriate media. Serological studies were performed to detect antimycoplasma antibodies. Both cultural and serological findings were consistently negative. It is suggested that the upper small intestine and biliary tract are not inhabited by mycoplasmas in either normal or pathological conditions.