Dry Pleurisy in the Horse and Ox. 347 



scence of exertion, there is no marked disturbance of the breath- 

 ing. In other cases, however, there is the short, abruptly cut 

 off inspiration of pleurisy, and even a double lifting of the flank 

 in the expiration and, finally, a distinct friction sound coincident 

 with the completion of the inspiratory act. The friction sound 

 is the one pathognomonic symptom, hence it should be carefully 

 sought for. Later when the false membranes and adhesions 

 have become partially organized, their stretching may give rise 

 to creaking sounds in the movements of the chest. There is 

 also the usual tenderness of the intercostal spaces in the region 

 of the exudate, demonstrable when that point can be reached. 

 There is no appreciable dullness on percussion, and no indica- 

 tion of pulmonary crepitation in uncomplicated cases. There- 

 fore, most examples of dry pleurisy and false membranes have 

 been found post mortem, and without any previous recognition 

 during life. 



Prognosis. Dry pleurisy is in its nature circumscribed and 

 without immediate danger to life. The active inflammation and 

 fever tend to recovery, but there may remain more or less com- 

 pression of a portion of the lung with imperfect filling of the air 

 cells, and in addition adhesions between the lung and the walls 

 of the chest, which together impair respiration so that both wind 

 and pace are interfered with. 



Treatment. Opportunity for treatment is usually denied for 

 lack of a correct diagnosis. When diagnosed, the affection may 

 be met by damp compresses, hot fomentations, dry cupping, and 

 even stimulating embrocations and mild blisters. Internally, 

 soda sulphate may be used daily to keep the bowels open, and 

 small doses of sodium or potassium bicarbonate may be used to 

 lessen the formation of false membranes, but the diuretics so 

 much in demand in sero-fibrinous pleurisy are here quite Un- 

 necessary. As the inflammation subsides, bitters and iron may 

 be given to build up the health, and a generous diet and open air 

 exercise may be gradually employed. 



