[Life threatening infection with bacteroides fragilis in connection with Dalkon shield (author's transl)].

A case of severe peritonitis in connection with the application of a Dalkon Shield is reported. By culturing the peritoneal exsudate a monoculture of Bacteroides fragilis was found as causing agens. The general aspects of severe infection in connection with IUD, particularly the Dalkon Shield, are discussed. By analysing the reports in the literature it cannot be ruled out, that Bacteroides fragilis may to be a major factor in cases with lethal outcome.