The appearances, later in the course of the disease, are so characteristic that a mistake is scarcely possible.
Give the prognosis of elephantiasis.
If the case comes under treatment in the first months of its development, the process may probably be checked or held in abeyance; when well established, rarely more than palliation is possible.
What is the treatment of elephantiasis?
The inflammatory attacks are to be treated on general principles. Quinia, potassium iodide, iron and other tonics are occasionally useful; and, especially in the earlier stages, climatic change is often of value. Between the inflammatory attacks the parts are to be rubbed with an ointment of iodine or mercury, together with galvanization of the involved part.
In elephantiasis of the leg, a roller or rubber bandage, or the gum stocking, is to be worn; compression and ligation of the main artery, and even excision of the sciatic nerve, have all been employed, with more or less diminution in size as a result. In elephantiasis of the genitalia, if the disease is well advanced, excision or amputation of the parts is to be practised.
Eczematous inflammation, if present, is to be treated with the ordinary remedies.
Dermatolysis.
(Synonym: Cutis Pendula.)
Give a descriptive definition of dermatolysis.