On the Treatment of Erysipelas by the Muriated Tincture of Iron.

Abstract

hitherto found to be most beneficial has been chiefly confined to counter-irritation, the guarded introduction of mercury, (with a view to the correction of morbid secretions, and carried to the extreme of very slightly affecting the gums,) the iodide of potassium, and codliver oil. Venesection is in no case called for, as a dangerous degree of depression may be expected to follow the use of depletory measures. Cupping, or even leeches, will seldom be needed, unless an unusual degree of pain be complained of, which is quite contrary to what ordinarily obtains. Blisters will be found to be of signal service, and these must be repeated again and again, not kept open, but permitted to heal; and their renewal, as well as any change of locality, must be influenced by the result of carefully-repeated stethoscopic investigation. Should any indication of an indurated portion of lung remain after the application of from three to five blisters, at weekly intervals, a strong solution of iodine (one drachm of iodine, and half a drachm of iodide of potassium, to one ounce of rectified spirit,) painted, if it can be borne, once daily over the affected spot, will be found at this stage very useful. If the secretions be much deranged, small doses of the hydrargyrum cum creta should be given, slightly, and only slightly, to affect the gums; or what will then be found to be a still better form is the bichloride, in doses of one-sixteenth of a grain, night and morning. Iodide of potassium, with alkaline salines, will be called for, to be followed by cod-liver oil, in doses from a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful thrice a day. This latter remedy bas given me much satisfaction in the treatment of pulmonary indurations of an adynamic character; and it has exerted a very marked influence in promoting the absorption of morbid exudation. This, I presume, it can alone effect by improving the condition of the general health.