Iodine in Scrofula. 245 



reputation of this powerful medicine to no purpose. As soon 

 as we perceive the glands, tumours, Sec. soften and subside, 

 we must suspend the frictions, and resume them after the inter- 

 val of a few days. 



I have ascertained, in a precise and certain manner, that 

 the action of iodine continues some time after its administra- 

 tion is stopped. It is therefore absurd merely to say, as I have 

 heard some " You have the goitre, take iodine." These scrofu- 

 lous obstructions demand a careful treatment, which must be ob- 

 served for some time, both internally and externally, with regard 

 to tl'.is remedy. It, in fact, requires attention somewhat simi- 

 lar to those which we give to corrosive sublimate, when pre- 

 scribed in syphilitic cases. 



I continue always to prescribe iodine internally, but less 

 frequently than I formerly did, because the frictions give the 

 same results, without running the hazard of injuring the sto- 

 mach ; and it is a singular fact, that half a drachm, or 36 grains, 

 of hydriodate of potash, under the form of inunction, cures or 

 dissipates a goitre, or scrofulous tumours in the neck, in the 

 very same space of time that the following solution does : Hy- 

 driodate of potash or soda 36 grains, iodine 10 grains, distilled 

 water 1 ounce, which are united together. Of this solution 

 10 drops are taken three times a-day at first, and then gradu- 

 ally augmented in quantity. 



I shall be particularly obliged to you. Sir, for communicating 

 this letter to my medical brethren in Great Britain ; and I re- 

 main your most obedient servant, 



Z. CoiNnET, M.D. 

 Genevft, Sqilcmhrr, 1 S2 1 . 



