Symptoms.—­They begin as small reddish spots, sharply defined against the healthy skin.  They may be elevated slightly and soon became covered with whitish pearl colored scales.  If the scales are picked off, there is left a smooth red surface, and from this, small drops of blood ooze out.  No watery or pus-like discharge escapes at any period of this disease.  These spots extend at the circumference (periphery), reaching the size of the drops, or of the coins, or they may run together and form ring-shaped, or crooked wavy lines of patches, with a center that is healing up.  A few scattered spots may be present, or large areas may be involved.  In rare cases the whole skin is affected.  These spots or patches may occur an any part of the body, but involve the extending part of the limbs, especially the elbows and knees.  There may be slight itching present at times.

Course of the Disease.—­It is chronic; patches may continue indefinitely or they may disappear in one place, while new crops appear elsewhere.  This disease usually appears far the first time between the ages of ten and fifteen; it may then return at various intervals during a lifetime.  It is usually worse during the winter.

[80 Mothers’ remedies.]

Causes.—­Are usually unknown, it may occur in all classes and kinds of people.

Physicians’ treatment for Itch Disease.—­Remedies for the general symptoms are demanded.  The general health must be looked after.  Stimulating foods and drinks and the use of tobacco are forbidden.

Arsenic in the form of Fowler’s solution from three to ten drops three times a day; or the arsenious acid in pills of 1/50 of a grain three times a day.  This medicine must not be used in the acute form, but only in chronic cases.

Local Treatment.—­1.  Remove the scales first and follow this by stimulating applications unless there is much inflammation.  In such cases soothing lotions should be applied.  Dr. Schalek of New York, recommends the following: 

2.  Remove the scales thoroughly with hot water and soap and then apply: 

    Chrysarobin 1 dram
    Ether, Alcohol Equal parts of each and enough
                         to dissolve the first remedy
    Collodion 1 ounce

Mix and apply with a brush to the parts affected.

This solution may cause inflammation and great swelling, and on that account it should not be used on the face, it stains the skin.  Dr. Hare recommends a bath only before the application.  In that way some scales remain and there is not so much inflammation and swelling resulting.  The stain can be removed with a weak solution of chlorinated lime.

3.  Tar Remedy.—­Tar is also a good remedy in ointment forms.  The skin should be closely watched to find out how sensitive it is to the tar’s action, not only in this but in all skin diseases.  Drugs should be changed occasionally, for they lose their efficiency.