DEP/DUA/1/44/16 (Normalised version)

Isabel Dewar

(1788)

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N^o16. Isabel Dewar. at 36.

Case of this patient both of complicated & in some degree also of doubtful nature

Is evidently subjected both to stomach ailment & to pectoral complaint.

But of these latter by much most considerable.

And with regard to these matter of doubt whether catarrh or phthisis.

Cannot certainly be said to be distinctly marked Phthisis.

For neither constant quickness of pulse nor regular accession of hectic fever.

But Phthisis well known a most insidious disease.

And often subsists for considerable time, with symptoms even less alarming than present.

I own therefore suspicion is that shall yet find patient falling victim to that disease.

At same time even supposing it Phthisis seems to me of most favourable kind.

That is Catarrhal Phthisis.

And on this idea though affection dangerous yet hopes of recovery not altogether precluded.

In this modification of disease cure chiefly to be expected by producing alteration in state of separation at surface of lungs.

And by restoring natural condition to suppurating vessels from which this separation afforded.

With these intentions have had recourse to a mucilaginous mixture [acidul] with vitriol acid.

And to mixture of powder of Cicuta & Peruvian bark.

But of these or other remedies, which may here employ reserve observations till shall afterwards speak of case at more length.