Diseases of the Horse. 147 



the formation of an abscess or sac containing pus ; in 

 effusion from the surface of membranes, as water (serum) 

 or mucus ; or by lymph within the structures inflamed, 

 by which permanent thickening or enlargement may be 

 the result. 



Inflammation is further distinguished by the structures 

 it attacks. Thus we have serous and mucous inflamma- 

 tion, as the serous or mucous membranes are involved. 

 When located in the substance of organs it is known as 

 parenchymatous ; if it seizes fibrous structures, as the 

 coverings of joints, ligaments, tendons, &c, it is rheuma- 

 tic ; and inflammation of the skin and deeper seated tis- 

 sues is termed erysipelatous. Beyond these terms we need 

 not pursue the definitions. 



The treatment of Inflammation may be local or general, 

 and will be noticed under the several diseases in which 

 the state forms an especial feature. 



Abscess. — The formation of pus, commonly.known as 

 matter, among soft parts of the body is known as an 

 abscess. The signs are swelling accompanied with heat 

 and unusual tenderness; and as the abscess becomes 

 complete, the hair is removed from the central or highest 

 portion, which is also moist and even more sensitive. 

 This part is acutely inflamed, and by the process of 

 ulceration within, becomes thin, and movement of the 

 contained fluid is readily perceived by pressure with the 

 fingers. Pressure from within also tends to project the 

 fluid outwards ; the central point of the abscess bulges, 

 and, when allowed to pursue its course unaided, the skin 

 gives way, and the pus escapes. In order to avoid this 

 delay, and, in addition also, much animal suffering, as 

 well as hasten ultimate recovery, the surgeon opens the 

 abscess at the required time, by means of a bistoury or 

 a lancet. 



Treatment. — The signs already given betoken the 

 favourable progress of an abscess, and should always, if 

 possible, be treated by a surgical operation as we have 

 described. Cleanliness, with occasional poultices or hot 

 fomentations are needed, but as a rule the first is suffi- 

 cient. Tardy or slow abscesses may be improved by con- 



