There  are  several  forms  of  this  affection,  the  most  common  perhaps
being  preceded  by  inflammation  of  the  gums,  with  such  premonitory
symptoms  as  great  languor  and  listlessness,  indisposition  to  any  exer-
cise, irritable  temper,  loss  of  sleep  and  appetite,  and  increase  of  thirst.
The  -countenance  becomes  pale  and  dejected,  and  a  peculiar  pucker-
ing of  the  cheeks  is  observed  about  the  corners  of  the  mouth.  Ema-
ciation and  night  sweats  are  not  uncommon.
These  premonitory  symptoms  may  continue  for  several  days,  or  even
W'eeks,  when  an  acute  pain  is  felt  in  the  mouth  and  gums,  with  a  sense
of  heat  and  itching  about  their  margins,  the  free  edges  of  which  become
congested  and  thickened,  spongy,  and  of  a  dark  red  or  purple  hue,
bleeding  readily.
