LECTURE XXXVI. 

 TUBERCULOSIS. 



Importance of the question is evidenced by the fact that 

 human consumption and bovine consumption are apparently the 

 same disease, and this disease may probably be transmitted from 

 cattle to people. It is unquestionably the most serious question 

 now confronting the medical profession. 



Prevalence. — The most widespread and universal disease af- 

 fecting either humanity or domestic animals. This is shown by 

 reports coming from all parts of America and the civilized world. 

 Probably much more prevalent among cattle than suspected This 

 disease prevails among all of the domestic animals, excepting pos- 

 sibly sheep. Concerning the susceptibility of these animals there 

 is some discussion. Prevalence is probably greatest in the various 

 classes of animals in the order named : cattle, hogs, horses. 

 Chickens are also quite susceptible. 



A careful study of prevalence according to class and condi- 

 tion has shown just what any student of sanitary conditions 

 should expect. The percentage was highest in each comparison 

 among "pure breds," in "city dairies," and "poor condition of 

 stables," and "poor ventilation ;" but it was shown that farm con- 

 ditions, good stables and good ventilation did not prevent infection. 

 The percentage in pure bred herds is much higher among grades 

 or natives. These records must not be taken to indicate that far- 

 mers should not improve their stock or that pure bred herds 

 should not be maintained. The evident suggestion is that it is 

 unwise to attempt improving a herd by tuljcrculosis stock or to 

 found a herd upon such stock. 



Cause. —No fact in medicine is better csta1)lishcd than that 

 tuberculosis is caused by the bacillus of tuberculosis. We cannot 

 have tuberculosis without these germs, and it is probable that no 

 domestic animals or man can be placed under continued exposure 

 to the germs without ultimately having tin- disease. Certain pre- 



