We can understand two things by this expression; 1st, the absorption of
fluids different from those naturally taken by the absorbents, as that
of effused blood, &c. I have already spoken of this absorption; 2d,
that which takes place in the cysts which are developed contrary to the
natural order in the economy. Now this last exhibits a very singular
phenomenon, when compared with preternatural exhalation. It, in fact,
takes place with difficulty; it is rare that you see the fluids
of encysted tumours enter suddenly the circulation by absorption,
either in whole or in part, as this very often happens in the serous
collections of the peritoneum, which, without being cured, have many
alterations of increase and diminution. What physician has not observed
that the urine flows more as the abdomen becomes flat, and that it is
suppressed when it is filled?
Observe on the contrary, that exhalation is renewed with great facility
in encysted tumours; that if we empty them and do not remove their
cysts, they are soon reproduced, as I have said. Is it that the
absorbents are not developed in proportion to the exhalants in these
tumours? I know not; but the fact is not less certain; observation of
diseases proves it every day.