DISEASES OF KIDNEYS.—In the treat ment of albuminuria digitalis has found many advocates; but, as will be readily understood on recalling its physiological relations, it cannot be held a remedy for what is at best but a mere symptom, ex cept its activity is directed toward the primary lesion, and that referable in disputably to the central organ of circu lation; and even here it should be em ployed only most watchfully and cau tiously. -Where the kidneys are involved with any morbid process having its in ception in the cardiac apparatus, indi vidual susceptibility and idiosyncrasy are likely to be highly developed. In acute stage of Bright's disease digitalis poultice and dry cupping often afford relief; and the infusion may also be employed in 1/2-ounce doses, repeated every two hours for twenty-four hours, or as long as urEemic symptoms are urgent. The drug should be promptly discontinued once the urine begins to flow, and diuresis continued with the aid of mild, diluent beverages. In passive renal congestion, too, which is generally associated with cardiac disease, digitalis may be indicated.
Digital is of service in granular de generation of kidney by increasing the quantity of urine passed and lessening the amount of solids voided. It is also
of service in relieving the tension of renal capillaries. Webster ("Dynamical Therap.,'"93).
Because it i.s claimed that digitalis is a drng which increases the force of the heart and contracts the vessels of the periphery—except those of the kidneys —it is employed indiscriminately as an ideal diuretic in Bright's disease, not withstanding the contra-inclications ob servable in capillary tension and cordy pnlse. Such irrational therapeutics can result in naught but harm. It seems almost foolhardy to use it in chronic nephritis accompanied with high periph eral blood-pressure, as it usually is, unless preceded by a short course of nitroglycerin to relieve the peripheral tension. English (Med. and Surg. Rep., Aug. 22, '96).
Decidedly beneficial in chronic form of Bright's disease, where there is car diac dilatation. In early stage of the malady, accompanied by cardiac hyper trophy and high arterial tension, it is doubtful if digitalis is indicated, either alone or in combination. Butler ("Text book of Mat. Med., Therap., and. Pharni.," '96).