ANTHRAX. 65 
situation they may appear to have a capsule and pre- 
sent a resemblance to pneumococci, from which, how- 
. ever, they may be distinguished by their small size, 
and by the fact that they do not stain by Gram’s 
method (Plate II., fig. 3). 
Now examine the Gram specimen. The bacilli are 
not seen, though other bacteria (pneumococci, strepto- 
cocci, staphylococci, &c.) may be visible. 
INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS. 
If minute bacilli having the above characters are 
found in large numbers in sputum taken in the manner 
described, the diagnosis of influenza may be made with 
certainty. 
If none are apparent and you are sure of your 
technique (and also of the fact that the sputum came 
from the lungs) the diagnosis of influenza is highly 
improbable. 
If the pulmonary symptoms in a case of influenza do 
not clear up speedily the sputum should be examined 
for the tubercle bacillus and the examination repeated 
at intervals. 
ANTHRAX. 
Anthrax occurs in man in three forms. The most 
common is cutaneous anthrax, or, as it is sometimes 
called, malignant pustule. Pulmonary anthvax or wool- 
sorter’s disease is much rarer, and intestinal anthrax 
rarer still, The practitioner will find the greatest 
F 
