A handbook of local therapeutics / edited by Harrison Allen.

Date:
1893
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: A handbook of local therapeutics / edited by Harrison Allen. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    69/554 (page 57)
    In the treatment of some forms of Subacute and Chronic Eczema, particularly about the face and scalp, or elsewhere when there is an abundant purulent discharge with decomposition, the milder ointments of salicylic acid, alone or combined with mild astringents, are found of the greatest service in checking the discharge and in keeping the parts from becoming foul-smelling. The following formulae may be suggested: R. Acid, salicylic, grs., x-xx; Vaselini, M. R. Acid, salicylic, grs. x-xx; Pulv. zinci oxidi, 3ss-3j Adipis, gj. M. P. Szadek {International Klin. Rundschau, June 7, 1889) recommends a plaster of 15 grains of salicylic acid to the ounce of soap plaster, in Chronic Infiltrated Eczema of the Extremities. He recommends a similar plaster, or an alcoholic solution of 40 or 50 grains to the ounce in Psoriasis. We prefer an ointment of half a drachm to a drachm to the ounce, but do not consider this preparation equal to chrysarobin or pyro- gallic acid as*a local application in this disease. A solution of one drachm salicylic acid, four drachms glycerin and an ounce and a half of alcohol has been employed successfully in the treatment of Lichen Planus. In Non-parasitic Sycosis (or Coccogenic Sycosis) an ointment of a drachm of salicylic acid to the ounce of lard, has been employed by Heitzmann with marked success. In Acne Heitzmann uses the following ointment: R. Acid Salicylic, gr. vj Sulphuris precipitat., 3ss-9j; Adipis, |j. M. An alcoholic solu- tion of 15 grains to the ounce, diluted considerably at first, softens Come- dones and aids in their removal. In Pruritus, particularly of the anus, a lotion of three to five grains to the ounce gives relief in some cases. The most remarkable action of salicylic acid is, however, upon the epidermis and epithelium. It softens and loosens thickened masses of epidermis in an extraordinary manner, leaving behind a raw but not inflamed surface. It is therefore peculiarly useful in the treatment of In- durated Eczema, especially of the Palm and Sole, and also in the treat- . ment of Tylosis, Verruca, Callositas, etc In these conditions the ^^india-rubber dermal plasters''^ manufactured in this country are equal, in most cases, to those especially manufactured under Unna's supervision. A piece of salicylated rubber plaster applied to the skin over a Wart or Corn soon adheres and may be kept in contact for several days, when it may be removed, the softened epidermis scraped and fresh applications made as long as is necessary. When the India-rubber plasters cannot be procured, the following preparation will serve a similar purpose : R. Acid, salicylic, giij; Crea- soti, 3vj; Cerse et adipis, aa q. s. The wax and lard are only added in sufficient quantity to give consistency to the mixture. The addition of