What is the treatment of purpura?
Hygienic and dietary measures, the administration of tonics and astringents, and, in severe cases, by relative or absolute rest.
The drugs commonly prescribed are: ergot, oil of erigeron, oil of turpentine, quinia, strychnia, iron, mineral acids, and gallic acid. External treatment is rarely called for, but if deemed advisable, astringent lotions may be employed.
Scorbutus.
(Synonyms: Scurvy; Sea Scurvy; Purpura Scorbutica.)
Describe scorbutus.
Scurvy is a peculiar constitutional state, developed in those living under bad hygienic conditions, and is characterized by emaciation, general febrile and asthenic symptoms, a more or less swollen, turgid and spongy and even gangrenous condition of the gums; and concomitantly, or sooner or later, by the appearance, usually upon the lower portion of the legs only, of dark-colored hemorrhagic patches or blotches. The skin of the affected part may become brawny and slightly scaly, and not infrequently may break down and ulcerate. Hemorrhages from the various mucous surfaces, slight or grave, may also take place.
State the etiology of scurvy.
It is due to long-continued deprivation of proper food, especially of fruits and vegetables. Other bad hygienic conditions favor its development. It is seen most commonly in sailors and others taking long voyages.
How is scurvy to be distinguished from purpura?