DEP/DUA/1/45/04 (Normalised version)

David Ritchie

(1788-1789)

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N^o23. David Ritchie at 24.

This also another case, which some doubt whether Phthisis or Catarrh.

But here am inclined to consider appearance as rather more alarming

Has not indeed distinct marked hectic symptoms.

And can by no means look upon it as decided Phthisis.

In particular has not that quickness of pulse which very commonly the attendant of Phthisis

But age of patient, continuation of affection sense of coldness in different parts, & particular sweatings during night are all grounds for alarm.

And while inclined to hope that [illegible] [merely] Catarrh, am apprehensive that this will terminate fatally in Phthisis.

Accordingly on that supposition have directed practices here employed.

Mean for some time at least to make trial of a drain under form of issue, & of internal use of Gum myrrh.

Practices from which I think have in some instances seen benefit.

And of which shall afterwards more fully speak.

But if shall be found to assume form of distinctively marked Phthisis, am apprehensive that neither from these nor any other is much benefit to be expected.

For must confess that consider cure of Phthisis as yet to be discovered & that may justly be ranked among opprobium medicorum¹.

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Explanatory notes:

1) A term used to refer to diseases which were considered to be untreatable and/or likely to prove fatal.