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

Tuberculosis of the Circulatory Apparatus.—This occurs as the result of
the pulmonary lesion, and is not found as a primary disease.
Diagnosis.—If the bacilli of Koch is the real cause of tuberculosis, as
generally accepted by the profession, the most certain diagnostic feature
would be the finding of the bacilli in the sputum and other excretions.
The reaction obtained by injecting tuberculin is also regarded as positive
evidence of the presence of tuberculosis.
The family history is of great value in the early stages. The increased
temperature, the gradual loss of flesh and strength, the general
evidence of malnutrition, the hectic fever, night-sweats, the cough,
hemorrhage, and emaciation confirm and render plain the diagnosis.
Prognosis.—While tuberculosis is generally regarded as one of the
incurable diseases, we are to remember that it is not necessarily fatal;
that the presence of the bacilli does not mean that tuberculosis has
become an established fact. These micro-organisms may gain entrance
into the system, but, failing to find a soil suitable for their propagation,
are cast out, and but little harm results.
Post-mortem examinations have revealed again and again the presence
of healed foci, showing conclusively that persons have recovered from
tuberculosis. When, then, may the prognosis be favorable, and when
unfavorable? Certain forms are less destructive, and the prognosis may
be quite hopeful.
Tuberculosis of the lymphatics and also of the osseous system do not
seem to possess the virus in such a malignant degree as other forms,
and the tendency is often toward health. Tuberculosis of certain organs
which can be removed by the surgeon, may be permanently relieved,
such as bone affections, the mammary gland, the ovary, the uterus, the
testicle, and glandular enlargements. These may be said to be the
hopeful cases. Also when the family history is of good report and the
previous health of the patient has been good; when digestion and
assimilation are first-class and the elaboration of a good blood is going
on. With these conditions the germs fail to make headway, and the
prognosis is good. Also where the temperature remains normal or rises
for but a short time each day, and where there is no hemorrhage.
An unfavorable prognosis would be where the conditions were just
The Eclectic Practice of Medicine - PART I - Infectious Diseases - Page 210