Change in Microbe Theories.

Gradually, nearly all of the theories concerning the microbic origin of disease, are changing. A foreign observer has been able to cultivate typhoid bacilli, freely, from the blood of healthy patients and from the blood of patients suffering from other diseases. Other observers have designated certain individual constitutions as bacilli carriers in whom, while the typhoid bacilli are present, the disease does not develop. We are certainly a long way yet from the truth concerning the influence of microorganisms in the development of disease.

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In fifty cases of chronic tonsillitis with plugs and pus in the tonsils, rheumatic affections were present in the majority of the cases. There is no doubt that this condition with its foul secretions is to blame for many disorders, but, as I have said before, I believe these organs should be treated without removal.

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An aspirating contrivance has been devised, which will pump out the contents of the crypts of the tonsils, removing all excretory products. This with the application of a cleansing antiseptic, and thuja, with perhaps the internal use of phytolacca, should cure a large per cent of these cases, reducing them to normal size and to health.

Ellingwood's Therapeutist, Vol. 2, 1908, was edited by Finley Ellingwood M.D.