ULCUS INFANTUM 



2189 



etiology. — This is unknown. A bacillus which cannot be grown 

 is the only germ present in most cases; but as to its ^etiological 

 role nothing can be said definitely. 



Symptomatology. — A reddish spot appears on some part of the 

 leg. The spot becomes slightly elevated, and shows a yellowish 

 central point. The yellowish point breaks down, and a small ulcer 

 appears, generally of circular shape, and with a red fundus. The 

 ulcer secretes a yellowish, thickish secretion, which dries into a 



Fig. 863. — Ulcus Infantum. 



yellow crust. If after some days the crust is removed, the ulcer 

 will be found much larger and deeper— the size of a shiUing to a 

 half-crown piece. The ulcer is generally indolent, except on pres- 

 sure. There may be a little pruritus. The ulcer may be single 

 or multiple. The inguinal lymphatic glands may become enlarged, 

 and occasionally the child has fever. The duration is between four 

 to six weeks and three or four months. On heahng, a permanent 

 whitish scar is left. 



