ECZEMA 471 



Diagnosis.— A diagnosis can only be made by the exclusion 

 of parasitic conditions and the more acute forms of dermatitis 

 and acne. 



Prognosis. —Favorable in the earlier stages, but when the 

 skin becomes thickened, hard and fissured, healing is as a 

 rule only temporary, as acute relapses occur. When occurring 

 as result of a chronic internal disease the prognosis is espe- 

 cially unfavorable. 



Treatment.— Carefully cleanse the affected parts, remove 

 all the crusts and scabs possible, and clip any hair that may 

 be over the part and for some distance around the margin. 

 Mild soap may be used for washing, also alkaline solution 

 (sodium carbonate 5 per cent.). Upon the condition of the 

 skin further treatment depends. If the surface is moist, 

 drying powders can be used, such as talcum, zinc oxid, or 

 boric acid. Liquid preparations of lead and zinc (Burrow's 

 solution) are also very good. Proper internal treatment is 

 important in all cases of eczema as has been shown by marked 

 improvement from this form of treatment alone. Mild pur- 

 gatives, especially calomel (0.06-0.12) or magnesium sulphate 

 (8.0-12.0), for their antiseptic and laxative action repeated 

 at two- or three-day intervals. Fowler's solution (0.19-0.58) 

 daily for dogs gives the best general results and should be 

 continued for a long time. Calcium chlorate (15.0-30.0) 

 in solution daily acts to relieve the itching. A good diet- 

 of easily digested, non-irritating foods is essential. 



