188 PEACTICE OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 



positive. A peculiar symptom said to be shown is lameness in the 

 off fore extremity. These cases may end in suppuration, and on 

 post-mortem pus is found. 



Outline the indications for treatment. 



The treatment is symptomatic and sustaining. 

 The drugs to be used are quinine, salicylic acid, alcohol, 

 aromatic spirits of ammonia, calomel, saline purgatives. 



CIRRHOSIS OF THE LIVER. 



Give the synonyms. 



Sclerosis; interstitial hepatitis. 



Give the definition. 



This is a chronic inflammation of the interstitial tissue of 

 the liver, characterized by a gradual destruction of the liver-cells 

 due to an overgrowth of connective-tissue elements pressing on 

 them and causing the organ to become hard and usually small. 



What is the aetiology? 



This is associated with chronic heart disease and diseases of 

 the lungs, which produces a constant venous congestion of the liver, 

 causing the central cells of the liver lobules to atrophy from an 

 increase of the connective tissue which takes place. In rickets 

 there is an enlargement of the liver with an increase in the con- 

 nective tissue surrounding the individual lobules; in old horses 

 it may be due to faulty feeding (over-feeding). Melanotic tumors 

 are often found in the liver, especially in gray horses. 



What is the morbid anatomy ? 



The liver is usually smaller, the edges are sharper, the organ 

 is hard and diiScult to tear. 



The liver is roughened externally, and for this reason it has 

 received the name of hob-nail liver in the human subject. 



It is also called gin-drinkers' liver, because it is generally due 

 to the abuse of alcohol. 



What is the treatment? 



Limit the diet, which should be easily digested and assimilated. 

 Saline purgatives to relieve the congestion. 

 Internally, potassium iodide, potassium nitrate, colchicum, 

 digitalis. 



