It is well known that these disorders, which are in many respects
similar, are contagious; therefore, no comb or hair-brush used by a
child affected by them is to be used by another child, either in a
school or in the same family. Nor should the hat or cap of such a
child be worn by any other.
_Treatment._
Let the hair be removed carefully with a razor, dipped
frequently in olive oil; and afterwards apply the following
lotion by means of fine linen, and cover the whole or
part of the head with it.
Take of liquor of acetated lead, 2 drams,
distilled vinegar, 6 drams,
sulphuric æther, 2 drams,
rain water, 1 pint.
Mix.
This lotion should be kept occasionally applied in the night
as well as in the day, and an oil-silk cap should be fitted
close to the head, and worn continually.
_Ointment for the same._
Take of spermaceti ointment, 1 oz.
tar ointment, 1 oz.
powdered angustura bark, 3 drams.
Rub the whole well in a marble mortar, and apply to the
parts affected.
_Alterative Medicines._
In six cases out of ten, this disease is aggravated by a
scrofulous taint of the system; and, when this is the case,
the following alterative medicine accelerates the cure.
Take of oxide of zinc,
precipitated sulphur of antimony, each 9 grains,
resin of guaiacum,
extract of bark,
extract of hemlock, each 2 scruples.
Mix, and form into 20 pills.
To Children from six to ten years of age, give one pill
night and morning; under six years, half a pill night and
morning, mixed in raspberry jam.
Instead of the above, one grain of calomel may be given
going to rest, and repeated every night; also the use of salt
water externally and internally, as an alterative, has been
found very useful.
In all cases the bowels ought to be kept open, and the
diet should consist of wholesome and nutritive food; avoiding
fish and salt meats. Cleanliness, and an occasional use
of the warm bath, will likewise be of service.