202 INORGANIC AGENTS 



the addition of 30 gr. of mercuric bichloride to 1 pint of 

 lime water, is sometimes employed as a stimulant applica- 

 tion in chronic eczema, and to relieve itching. It contains 

 the yellow oxide of mercury. In purulent conjunctivitis, 

 frequent irrigation with a 1-1000 solution of corrosive subli- 

 mate is of the greatest service. 



Internal, — Corrosive sublimate is of value in minute 

 doses as a blood tonic, and is recommended as an antiphlo- 

 gistic agent in diminishing fibrinous exudation in inflamma- 

 tory diseases of serous membranes, as pleuritis, meningitis, 

 and arthritis. It is probably inferior to calomel for this 

 purpose. We at least know that calomel is an efficient 

 cathartic in inflammatory diseases. 



Mercuric bichloride is employed as an intestinal anti- 

 septic and hepatic stimulant, in the treatment of dysentery 

 and diarrhoea with mucous or vile smelling discharges. In 

 these conditions, irrigation of the rectam with a 1-5000 

 solution is of advantage. This solution should be drained 

 off through the rectal tube and followed by an injection of 

 plain boiled water. 



Administration. — Corrosive sublimate is given in the 

 form of a pill or ball. If exhibited in solution to the large 

 animals, it must be diluted with 2 quarts of water. 



HYDRARGYRI CHLORIDUM MITE. 



External, — Calomel is of use in chronic eczema when 

 applied over small patches in its pure state, or as " black 

 wash." The latter consists of one drachm of calomel in one 

 pint of lime water, forming the black oxide of mercury, and 

 is a very efficient preparation to relieve itching and promote 

 recovery in chronic eczema, by mild stimulation. Calomel 

 is of benefit when blown into the eye once or twice a week, 

 stimulating and hastening absorption of opacities of the 

 cornea following keratitis. It is the best agent to arrest 

 thrush when worked up into the commisure of the hoof, 

 between the frog and the bars, and retained in place by 

 oakum packing. 



