SCARLET FEVER. Synonyms.—Scarlatina; Scarlet Rash. Definition ...

acillus of Pfeiffer the causal agent.
The method of entrance into the system is most likely by way of the
respiratory apparatus, and the rapidity with which it travels and the
great number attacked, irrespective of contact with each other, warrants
this position.
The scourge usually lasts from four to seven weeks. One attack does not
render a person immune, and a second or third attack is common. The
exhaustion that attends the disease renders the system susceptible to
the influence of any and every toxin, and the sequelae of grip are
legion.
Pathology.—There are no characteristic anatomical lesions in a case of
uncomplicated influenza. Where the disease has continued for some
time, the mucous membrane of the air-passages as the disease
progresses this becomes more profuse, is removed with less effort, the
cough is easier, and the paroxysms occur at longer intervals. With the
increased secretion of the mucus, the fever subsides, all the symptoms
are mitigated, and the patient enters the convalescent stage from the
fifth to the eighth day.
In more severe cases a severe catarrhal bronchitis develops, with the
usual attendant symptoms.
One of the most frequent and severe complications of this type is
pneumonia. The cough is short and hacking, the respiration labored and
oppressed, and the patient presents an anxious appearance. If the
pleura be also involved, a sharp lancinating pain accompanies the
cough. The sputum assumes the characteristic rusty form, the crepitant
and subcrepitant rales develop, there is dullness on percussion, and the
dusky hue of the face speaks of imperfect aeration of the blood, and the
patient has to be propped up in bed to assist the inspiratory muscles in
filling the lungs. The symptoms are so pronounced that the case can not
be mistaken.
Heart-failure may occur in this type, though very rare, unless
depressants, like the coal-tar products, have been used.
Gastro-Intestinal.—In some the stomach and bowels appear to receive
the force of the infection, there being nausea and vomiting, together
with diarrhea. This type was noticed quite frequently in 1891. The
The Eclectic Practice of Medicine - PART I - Infectious Diseases - Page 165