[Fecal flora of man. V. communication: The fluctuation of the fecal flora of the healthy adult (author's transl)]

Abstract

Seven fecal specimens from each of healthy persons, aged 25 to 42 years, during the period of 2 months were analyzed to obtain the knowledge on the day-to-day variation in the same person and the person-to-person variation. Irrespective of individuals, bacteroidaceae, catenabacteria (eubacteria and strict anaerobic lactobacilli), peptostreptococci (anaerobic gram positive cocci) and bifidobacteria constituted the predominant flora. Spirillaceae, megasphaerae and clostridia (except Cl. perfringens) were also found as predominant flora in specific individuals. In all cases, enterobacteria and streptococci constitute the accompanying flora. In addition, veillonallae and lactobacilli were found as predominant flora in most cases. The remaining flora, consisting of Cl. perfringens, staphylococci and yeast, occurred occasionally in low numbers. With regard to the composition of the fecal flora of each person, a great individual variation was recognized and confirmed statistically. Each person had a characteristic fecal flora. In the same person, the numbers of bacteria of the predominating flora were over a 2 months period relatively constant. On the other hand, a great day-to-day variation in the numbers of bacteria of the accompanying flora as well as the remaining flora was demonstrated.