ABSOHBENT SYSTEM. 171 



fL la the centre of it. The gland is not disorganized, 

 but enlarged and inflamed. 



Q. What absorbent vessels are principally inflamed ? 



J3. Those of the inferior extremities. 



Q. Where is the scrofulous affection of this tissue most 

 common? 



ft. In the abdomen, thorax, and neck. 



Q. What occasions marasmus in tabes mesenterica? 



ft. The gradual diminution in the absorption of the 

 chyle, owing to progressive destruction of the function 

 and organization of the mesenteric glands. 



Q. How is the dyspnoea from tabes mesenterica pro- 

 duced? 



*ft. By co-existent though consecutive disease in the 

 lymphatics of the lungs. 



Q. What are the progressive stages in the scrofulous 

 disease of a lymphatic gland? 



ft. The gland is first in chronic inflammation; next it 

 is in part steatomatous, then it is completely steatomatous, 

 and lastly it degenerates into the formation of bad pus and 

 ichorous fluid. In adopting this view, ascertain whether 

 the scrofulous degeneration is altogether steatomatous. 



Q. Why are not scrofulous swellings of the neck fatal? 

 - ft. Because their progress is bounded by parts not dis- 

 posed to take on disease, or not vital if they do. 



