DEP/DUA/1/43/50 (Normalised version)

Thomas Stevenson

(1787-1788)

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N^o36. Thomas Stevenson at 25.

On case of this patient no obvious alteration has taken place since came under care.

Then pronounced an example of Cataractu vera of Sauvages – Caligo Lentis of Cullen

Only however in [incipient] state & unfit for operation.

From what have since seen no reason in any degree to alter opinion.

And as far as change in disease has been merely that progress which may be considered as natural course.

For remedies employed have not only done nothing in removing it, but have not even interrupted progress.

While at same time, hardly know what can be employed, with greater [prospect] of success.

Hence hopes of recovery even less than before.

Here remedy first directed, & from which indeed principal expectation, Electricity.

To be considered as most powerful stimulant which we possess.

For in consequence of actually pervading both solids & fluids, acts as powerful topical stimulant, even to deep seated parts.

Has remarkable influence as exerting motion even in inanimate matters.

This abundantly apparent from increased motion of fluids though capillary glass tubes.

Hence then may be considered as well suited for increasing action of capillary lymph absorption.

And is alone from action of these carrying off opaque matter deposited that [due] transport can be restored.

If therefore any remedy from which success to be looked for is I think Electricity.

But besides electricity directed here also another remedy Pills viz of Hyoscyamus

To these in some degree led with view of obviating headache with which at times affected.

But still more to engage attention of patient, & to [recover] attendance if electricity at any time accidentally omitted.

If product of this effect, has had no other.

And electricity not attended with any more material benefit.

For notwithstanding regular continuation, diminishment of vision rather augmented than otherwise.

And now I own inclined to think that only chance of recovery is operation when disease in condition for it.

But if patient continues attendance, shall still wish to persist for some time longer in electricity that may have fair trial