DISEASES OF THE SKIN 



ERYTHEMA 



Consists in a bright redness, diffused generally over the 

 skin, and more or less regularly exhibited. When press- 

 ure is applied, this redness disappears, but is soon re- 

 newed after the pressure is withdrawn. The disease is 

 rarely seen for many days as a simple erythema, except 

 in parts infected by parasites, for it becomes complicated 

 by the formation of vesicles or even pustules, the dis- 

 charge from which will mat the hair. The skin may ul- 

 cerate and slough off in parts. In some cases the disease 

 remains simple, the cuticle is shed, and health returns. 

 In fatal cases of simple erythema, the redness is confined 

 to the outer layer of the skin, the deeper part as a rule 

 not being much affected. 



Simple erythema may become chronic, especially on the 

 teats of cows and sheep. The skin cracks and exudes a 

 thin, gelatinous fluid, which may infect the lips of the 

 calf or lamb. 



Remedy. — Begin the treatment of chronic erythema 

 with a laxative; then give liquor arsenicalis, 3 drams, 

 bicarbonate potassium, 1 oz., water, 1 pint, twice a day, 

 after food. 



Erythema of the Udder seems to be caused by a 

 constitutional specific infection, the vesicles formed con- 

 taining matter which causes scarlet fever in man. When 

 severe, handling the teats causes great pain. The milk 

 should be drawn with a siphon and rejected. Eemove 

 the calf and dress its mouth if affected. 



