On Diaphoresis in Syphilis.
—Dr. Radestock, of Geithain (Saxony), again calls attention to this subject in an article which recently appeared in the Therapeutische Monatshefte, where he mentions the use of decoctions from lignum vitæ, divers infusions, mercurial fumigations, and among others, the thermal springs at Aix-la-Chapelle and Wiesbaden. Syphilis would not improve by the sole use of sudorific means, without the help of classical treatment, but their combination with mercury or iodide of potassium appears of undeniable value, inasmuch, probably, as it favors the elimination of the specific poisons, the same as sweats in fevers or infectious diseases. We notice, for instance, that in people who perspire a great deal, as in soldiers or stokers, roseola does not last as long as in others, and even smallpox is less serious. Radestock's method consists in prescribing a hot bath of about 30 minutes duration, until the skin becomes red.