DEP/DUA/1/31/38 (Normalised version)

Alexander Blair

(1782-1783)

---

Alexander Blair

In history of this patients case many different complaints mentioned.

And some of these of such nature that no hopes could be entertained of their removal.

Such for example as loss of power of arm

This we are told had occurred even twenty years before he came under care.

And then consequence of deep seated ulceration producing dislocation of cubitus & probably also other very material local affections.

This however probably altogether unconnected with that eruption on different parts of trunk of his body described in case

Particularly on lower part of right side

While other complaints of twenty years standing this affection we are told commenced only about a year ago

And was then consequence of fever. If had been to name this disease from appearance should have given it appellation of an Herpetic eruption.

And this I own idea which was disposed to form of it.

But although affections thus differing both as to time & appearance yet entertained some suspicion that might yet partake of same nature.

And that ulceration both now & formerly might be somehow connected with Scrofula tendency in habit.

Hence then while consider less of power of arm as [illegible], imagined that this also would prove an obstinate affection.

Hitherto however had produced no lesion of any of more important functions.

Case therefore such as at least afforded opportunity for trial of different remedies.

Here directed friction with Camphor oil to parts merely affected under form of eruption & dressing with saturn ointment to those in state of ulceration

While however had recourse to these external applications prescribed also crude Antimony to be taken internally.

Of use of this article in different cutaneous affections have already had occasion to state my sentiments.

And have I think during present course had some examples of benefits to be derived from it.

With present patient had effect of exciting sickness at stomach, a consequence not unfrequently resulting from use.

Here however not to such a degree as to be very distressing to patient

And as imagined that from habituality might go off, still resolved on continuation of use.

Especially as practice directed whether from external or internal remedies had appearance at least of being attended with advantage

At succeeding report however found that sickness still continued.

While at the same time was himself of opinion that much weakened by powders.

And whether this the case or not cannot be any question that continual nausea one of most disagreeable & distressing sensations to which patients can be subjected.

While therefore directed continuation of former external application in place of antimony internally substituted Vitriolic acid.

Had hardly however directed this medicine when accidentally learnt that patient applying for advice & obtained medicine elsewhere

Need hardly however add that when this the case those objectives which had in view by making him subject of lecture & example of practice, totally frustrated.

Hence then at succeeding report dismissed for irregularity.