10 LECTURES. 



such a result. In severe cases of cerebral cysti- 

 cercus, shown to have been such by post-mortem 

 appearances, the epileptic fits were commonly suc- 

 ceeded by torpor and loss of consciousness, gradually 

 terminating in death. In autopsies resulting from 

 brain affections, should any cysticercal-like produc- 

 tions be found, be on your guard. In several cases 

 recorded as hydatids the authors have really been 

 dealing with examples of the ordinary cysticercus, 

 whilst in others the observers (like Fredault) have 

 referred common cysticercal developments to dis- 

 tinct and hitherto undescribed species of entozoa. 

 A little attention to the facts I have placed before 

 you, coupled with an inspection of the specimens, 

 should be sufficient to prevent the recurrence, on 

 your part, of any similar error. 



Leaving for future consideration the subject of 

 hydatids, which not only concerns the surgeon, but 

 has important bearing on questions of public health, 

 let us now consider the symptoms liable to result 

 from the presence of tapeworms in the intestinal 

 canal. Occasionally, indeed, the " bearer" is fortu- 

 nate enough to experience no marked inconveni- 

 ence ; but, as I have elsewhere stated, such instances 

 of immunity are rather apparent than real. The 

 exemption is apparent only, " inasmuch as the para- 

 site gradually, and to the patient, as it were, unknow- 

 ingly, steals away a portion of his health. The 

 trifling feelings of weariness and lassitude are 



