DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 133 



This ointment can be applied freelj', and in cases where the hairs have 

 not been removed, it will not stick and mat them together. A prolonged 

 use of this preparation sometimes inflames the skin and necessitates its 

 discontinuance for a time; in such cases it will be well to wash the animal 

 thoroughly, and return to the oxide of zinc ointment or the use of fresh 

 lard or vaseline. In cases proving obstinate under this treatment, it would 

 be well to try the mixture of calomel and lime-water for which the name 

 "black wash " is given. As a general rule tarry preparations are more 

 appropriate when the affected parts feel stiff and rigid, and there is a ten- 

 dency to the formation of fissures. 



Preparations of lead are often found serviceable in the treatment of 

 eczema; diachylon is the more common form used, and can be made into 

 an ointment with linseed oil equal parts. Its long continued use is not 

 advised, poisoning by absorption being possible. 



The number of proprietary medicines for skin disease is countless; that 

 all are positive cures is assured by extensive advertisements. 



The writer has no disposition to discuss their value; many have virtues 

 and others are comparatively worthless ; none are infallible cures. Many 

 of these preparations are made of the oil of tar, glycerin, and powdered 

 sulphur; to others are added prepared chalk; still others are formed of the 

 balsam peru and alcohol, generally in parts one to five; occasionally is 

 found one, the basis of which is naptha. All of these agents are active, 

 and efficient in many cases; in as many others their use, independent of 

 constitutional treatment, can accomplish but little. 



Reviewing briefly the entire subject, we have in eczema a disease which 

 can be cured. The fact that it has existed for a long time renders the 

 prognosis more favorable, as in many cases the disease alone is to be com- 

 batted; not the morbid process which induced it. 



In the earlier stages the soothing treatment is alone admissible. By it 

 the intensity of the disease is lessened, even if recovery does not result. 



While the eruption is localized and confined, external causes very likely 

 induce it; on the other hand, when the eczema is more or less general, the 

 cause is internal, and there treatment must imperatively be addressed. 



In all cases the object is to correct abuses, build up the system, improve 

 the general strength, and render the condition of the animal as near per- 

 fect as possible. 



