This paper is offered in order to suggest the possibility implied in the title, and to elicit any comment which its publication may induce. In fact, such comment is invited. Search in the literature has thus far been barren of reference, yet it may be that such reference has been overlooked, or that some physicians have knowledge of conditions occurring as in the present account. During the months of October and
November, 1913, numerous newspaper reports called attention to eases of sickness and death alleged to be due to the eating of chestnuts obtained from blighted trees. These cases were reported from Hartford, Conn., and vicinity, from a town in New Jersey, from several places in Massachusetts, and from a point in New Hampshire. I undertook investigation with a view to ascertaining the facts giving rise to the reports. The results of the study are here set forth.
PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATIONS