CLASSIFICATION OF DISEASES. 81 



Define actinomycosis. 



This is a chronic infective disorder, produced by the actinO' 

 myces, or ray funyus. 



What is the aetiology ? 



This disease was lirst described by Bollinger, in 1887, when 

 the proper nature of the disease was described in the ox, in which 

 animal it most commonly occurs, being rare in the horse. This 

 disease occurs in cattle, pigs, horses, and is seen in the human 

 subject. 



It is caused by a parasite that usually gains entrance with the 

 food or drink, lodges on the mucous membrane of the buccal cavity, 

 especially if abrasions exist. 



What is the morbid anatomy ? 



In the early stages of its growth the parasite gives rise to small 

 granulation tumors, not unlike those produced in tuberculosis; 

 as they increase in size, proliferation of the surrounding connective 

 tissue is extensive; soon suppuration takes place. 



What are the clinical forms ? 



(a) Alimentary form, the mouth being the common location; 

 but the parasite may locate in the intestines, producing ulceration. 



(b) Pulmonary form, w^here the lungs are the seat. 



(c) Cutaneous form, where associated with certain skin affec- 

 tions. 



(d) Cerebral form, where the seat is in the cranial cavity and 

 produces symptoms similar to tumor of the brain. 



How may actinomycosis be diagnosed ? 



By the symptoms, by the local swellings followed by suppura- 

 tion, and by the use of the microscope. 



What treatment is recommended ? 



Hasten suppuration by poultices or hot fomentation, open the 

 abscess and irrigate with astringent and disinfectant solutions. 



Internally, potassium iodide has given the best results. In- 

 ternal antiseptics may be indicated in some of the forms; bismuth, 

 creasote, quinine, salol, etc. 



