DEP/DUA/1/20/06 (Normalised version)

Peter McArthur

(1779)

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Peter McArthur.

Disease of this patient seems in its nature to be free from all complications.

And at same time as far as from external circumstances can give name to it seems to be very distinctly marked.

May be said to consist entirely in one symptom.

Pain viz in Hip joint

From thence indeed in some measure propagated in different directions.

Particularly downwards along outside of thigh

In some measure however upwards also to small of back.

Especially on being subjected to any considerable degree of motion or uncommon exertion.

In all these different particulars [have] the distinct characteristics of Ischiadicus.

Which although not in every nosological¹ system is at least in some considered as a genus of disease.

Am however disposed to think, that, as has been done by Dr Cullen is with greater propriety ranked under genus of Rheumatism.

And unless in as far as situation gives peculiarity, to be considered as in no respect different from Rheumatism when it attacks other places.

Among these peculiarities however one not least considered is obstinacy with which it continues.

Can therefore in no case but particularly at period of life so far advanced as [that] of present patient, promise speedy cure.

And had he continued under care not improbable that every endeavour might have proved abortive.

At same time from different means had chance at least of alleviating if not of curing affection.

And even hoped that for the time, at least, should have been able to dismiss him free from complaint.

From continuation of disease of this patient conjoined with absence of fever & other circumstances was disposed to conclude that disease had already proceeded if not to state of Paralysis at least of atonia.

And consider removal therefore as principally to be expected from use of stimulants.

As referred to this [head] a great variety of different practices in use.

Among these had here recourse to electricity.

From which in some instances at least have experienced best effects.

Was in hopes that proper trial in present case would have afforded farther proof of efficacy.

But situation of patient unfavourable for his attendance.

And as probably may see nothing more of him in this place reckon farther observations on case unnecessary.

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Explanatory notes:

1) Nosology is the branch of medical science dealing with the classification of diseases. Individuals referred to in the case notes as nosologists were commonly those who had published nosological, or classificatory, medical texts.