For the purposes of this discussion, uremia may be tentatively defined as an autointoxication, which affects mainy the nervous system, and occurs in connection with renal insufficiency. It is due to the retention in the blood, tissue lymph and cells of the body of certain indeterminate, but specific, products of perverted, or normal, tissue metabolism, which are not excreted by the inadequate kidneys, or are not taken up by the lymphatic radicles, or are not neutralized or destroyed by the lymphatic glands or other protective organs.
We are lacking in knowledge regarding many of those fundamental facts of anatomy, physiology and pathology which are necessary for formulating a specific treatment for uremia ; therefore, that which is offered should be considered as being based on a fairly rational empiricism, directed in the main toward the prevention and relief of prominent symptoms and known conditions.
In order that my remarks may