18 METHODS OF ELUCIDATING DISEASE. 



Here again caution is needed to guard against supposing* 

 that the use of the thermometer can ever dispense with the 

 accurate observation and registration of symptoms ; the col- 

 lating of these and their association with mind. We must 

 never forget that the thermometer, like the microscope and 

 other instruments, "are merely instruments of j^athological 

 inquiry, each one adapted for the determination of particular 

 classes of facts. They can only elucidate disease when they 

 are brought to bear on physical properties the nature of Avhich 

 they are able to appreciate ; and it is only from their combined 

 and appropriate use in connection with general symptoms and 

 signs that our knowledge of the nature of diseases will be 

 advanced." 



In addition to its employment as an aid in the diagnosis of 

 existing disease, it is further to be remembered that it possesses 

 a distinctive value as marking for us that exaltation in body 

 temperature which exists during the incubative period of 

 zymotic and contagious diseases. This is a point not to be 

 overlooked, seeing that upon its adoption extensively and with 

 knowledge depends our power oftentimes of circumscribing or 

 eradicating the most serious animal plagues. 



In following out the clinical study of any case, particularly 

 in its symptomatology, it is ever to be remembered that wher- 

 ever possible, we ought carefully to follow it through its entire 

 course, observing and noting any new phenomena and com- 

 plications which may occur ; and if a fatal termination be the 

 result, to see that an after-death examination as methodical 

 and minute is carried out. 



Diagnosis. — Having made the examination of our patient in 

 this manner, or in one which may be expected to yield lilce 

 results, and noted mentally or in our case-book the various 

 facts, the information thus obtained in every case of disease, 

 by intelligent questioning of attendants and by careful ex- 

 amination of our patients, is not to be valued as an ultimate 

 result, but to be at once utilized for further and higher pur- 

 poses. Mind must be brought into contact with facts, symp- 

 toms converted into signs of disease or otherwise explamed ; a 

 diagnosis of our case has to be made. By this is meant a full 

 and accurate idea of the origin, seat, character, and extent of 

 the disturbance. 



