There is no condition of the blood characteristic of scurvy. Gingivitis is not a constant symptom. In certain eases there is a condition of the blood similar to that existing in pernicious amemia, though any definite connection between the two diseases is not demon strated.
The most important etiological ele ment appears to be a diet lacking in vegetables or their ingredients. Tainted food may produce it, and an exclusive diet of perfectly fresh meat and blood may prevent it. The infectious theory is gaining a foot-hold among the authorities, although no definite micro organism has been recognized. J. E. Tal ley (.lour. Amer. INIed. Assoc., Nov. 1, 1902).
The pathological features, beyond those described under SYMPTOMS, consist in parenchymatous changes in the vis cera, notably the heart, liver, and kid neys.
Prophylaxis. — Scorbutus has almost totally disappeared, owing to the wise laws enacted by the various maritime countries, and the conversion into trans portable articles of diet of fresh vege tables and fruits, which formerly were classed as perishable property. Ships and armies can now be fully supplied with these antiscorbutic articles in sealed cans and jars, and any number of men can be protected for any length of time.
Treatment.—If the prevailing view in respect to the pathogenesis of the affec tion is correct, there are three main in dications: (1) to supply the scorbutic organism with fixed alkalies to replace those which have passed out in the urine with the excessive acid of the food, (2) to give remedies which at the same time shall relieve the defect of blood-coagula bility, and (3) to combine these desid erata with portability and inexpensive ness in the drugs. Wright (lee. cit.) con
tends that lime-juice and fresh vegetables do not fulfill the latter condition, and that the use of non-poisonous organic acid salts of potash and soda are neces sary. He recommends 30 to 60 grains of Rochelle salts by the mouth daily, and 20 grains of chloride of calcium three times a day to enhance the blood coagulability. • Fresh fruit, especially lemons, oranges, vegetables, potatoes, cabbage, lettuce, etc., freely eaten, soon bring on conva lescence, however, especially when bined with eggs, meats, fowl, milk, and other foods calculated to increase the patient's vigor. Remedies should only be used to counteract constipation or to alleviate the oral lesions by local cations (see STOMATITIS) tending to cor rect the fcetor and relieve the surfaces of detritus and discharges. Cleanliness of the mouth is important; this is best obtained by means of a solution of borax, 20 grains to the ounce.