_Tincture of Galls_, produced a white precipitate in
moderate quantity.
_Lime Water_, afforded a considerable quantity
of a white precipitate, which was
redissolved without effervescence
by muriatic acid.
_Solution of Sulphat A drop of this solution added to
of Copper._ two drams of the brain fluid
tinged it with a pretty deep blue.
The presence of animal matter is inferred from the deposition produced by
infusion of galls.
The precipitation by lime-water indicates the phosphoric acid.
And it appears from the blue tinge given to the fluid by the sulphat of
copper, that ammonia or some of its combinations was contained.
As it occurred on many former trials, there was no coagulation by heat; a
slight sediment fell, after boiling some minutes.
As this patient remained in the hospital from the middle of January to the
beginning of May, in a state perfectly tranquil, and without the
appearance of disarrangement of mind, it is improbable that a so great
enlargement of the ventricles, and accumulation of water, could have taken
place within the short space of two weeks, it is therefore most likely
that the greatest part of this fluid had been previously collected.
It may be conjectured that a very gradual accumulation of water (although
the quantity be at last considerable) would not affect the sensorium so as
a sudden secretion of fluid; or, that a quantity, which at one time had
occasioned great disturbance, would by habit become less inconvenient.
We are not well informed, but there is reason to believe, that gradual
pressure on the brain, will not occasion those serious symptoms which a
sudden pressure would excite.