INFLAMMATION OF BRAIN 625 



Postmortem Diagnosis.^ — In cases that have died of inflamma- 

 tion of the brain, if the brain be examined after death some very 

 interesting findings are seen. The covering membranes of the or- 

 gan are found to be congested and inflamed. In cases that are 

 caused by a kick or blow this reddening and thickening of the mem- 

 branes is especially marked at the point where the injury was re- 

 ceived. 



Beneath the membranes, and pushing them up from the under- 

 lying brain, there is usually found a collection of straw-colored 

 fluid. This may be rather flaky in appearance, due to the presence 

 of infection by pus germs. When the brain itself is cut into, this 

 same fluid is found distending the cavities of the organ. The gray 

 matter of the brain is found to be swollen and congested. It ap- 

 pears red in spots and darker than normal in other locations. The 

 entire organ is somewhat softened and infiltrated with this inflam- 

 matory fluid. 



Treatment. — Preventive treatment consists in keeping pens 

 and feed yards clean and free from disease-breeding holes and 

 stagnant ponds. Avoid handling hogs during the heat of the day, 

 and especially use care in handling fat, plethoric animals. 



In the active treatment of the disease it is essential that the 

 animals be at once removed to a cool, shady spot and kept as quiet 

 as possible. It is preferable to remove them to a cool, dark box- 

 stall, where they will have plenty of room to move about without 

 danger of injuring themselves. Food should consist only of soft, 

 sloppy substances and plenty of fresh, cool water. 



Bleeding is often resorted to with benefit for the purpose of 

 relieving the congestion in the head and brain. Cold water, poured 

 over the forehead and between the ears, is often beneficial in over- 

 coming the congestion. A large dose of Epsom salt may be given 

 in some cases, but it is not advisable to tussle with the animal in 

 attempting to give a drench, as this makes the condition much 

 worse. Chloral or opium are valuable agents in overcoming the 

 excitement and quieting the movements of the animal during the 

 period of excitement. 



After the severe symptoms have subsided, the animal should 

 be kept in a cool dark place for several days and fed on a light diet 

 to which some tonic condition powder may be added. In those 



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