172 PHYSIC 



Thus the curative treatment in this case, which was most 

 successful, consisted in the softening and removal of the 

 hyperkeratosed epidermal exuvia by the local emollient 

 and detaching influence of glycerinated skin lotion, assisted 

 by simultaneous friction and the immediate removal of 

 the softened epidermal impedimenta. This, together with 

 the local protection of the affected parts after treatment 

 and recourse to the same treatment when required, has 

 resulted in the restoration to a perfectly healthy condition 

 of the areas involved, and to a " much pleasanter con- 

 dition" of the whole hands, in fact, equivalent to their 

 summer or normal condition. 



On analysing this pathological condition, if we be war- 

 ranted in the use of the phrase, we become aware that it 

 is entirely of mechanical origin, and that it requires for 

 its cure and prevention means of a mechanical character ; 

 but who will say, if it be entirely neglected and allowed 

 to evolve its undoubtedly pathological or pathogenic con- 

 sequences, where it will or may end, and what actual 

 disease or diseases it may initiate and foster? Verily we 

 have here afforded the etiological foundation for the origin 

 and progress of chemical, bacterial, and other ailments of 

 the most varied and extensive order, and sometimes most 

 repulsive and even fatal character " desquamative derma- 

 titis," "dermal tuberculosis," et hoc genus omne, and 

 "leprosy," according to the prevailing bacterial life and 

 local morbid environments. 



