LYSOL AS A DISINFECTANT. 
615 
if the germ, and when freed with chemical agents (which, by 
die way, are present in the blood), the growth is virtually as 
rigorous as before the subjection. Hence, we deduct this 
:onclusion, that a disinfectant is always an antiseptic, and 
diat an antiseptic when used in stronger solutions may be a 
disinfectant. 
For the basis of my experiments I have taken the staphy¬ 
lococcus pyogenes aureus, the action of which is the bitterest 
mtagonist with which the surgeon has to deal, and the drug 
known as lvsol. 
As a result of recent investigation in Europe, the popularity 
if lysol is fast disseminating throughout the progressive class 
if practitioners. In America it is fast becoming the subject 
if much comment, but as yet little investigation has been 
made. 
In order that this agent (which is comparatively new), 
should have a place in the above named category, it is neces¬ 
sary and just that its efficiency should be proven. That such 
should be proven, so as to leave no doubt, the most virulent 
pus-forming organism was selected. 
I hope farther along to bear out the statements which have 
ilreadv been made in regard to it, namely, that it is a true 
disinfectant. 
Lysol belongs to the group known as cresals, and is a coal 
bar product, hence its close relation to carbolic acid. The 
presals- are, as a rule, practically insoluble. However, when 
the question of solubility among the different members of the 
group came into consideration, and the matter put to a prac¬ 
tical test, we find that lysol, in a soluble form, is obtained by 
dissolving in fat, and afterward saponifying with alcohol, that 
Faction of tar oil which boils between ioo° and 200° centi¬ 
grade. It is a brown, clear liquid, possessing a creosote-like 
ador, forming clear, compatible mixtures with water, alcohol, 
benzine, chloroform and glycerine. 
The virulence of the germ was demonstrated by inoculat¬ 
ing the rabbit, which died in thirty-six hours with septicaemia. 
The experiments were conducted with the utmost care and 
regard for accuracy. We have reasons to believe, therefore, 
