From Lichen and Prurigo, by its vesicular nature,
which can always be seen with a lens.
Besides these distinctions, in doubtful cases we can
readily discover the animalcule by raising with a fine
needle the little elevated spot of the epidermis at the
end of the burrow. The moment the Acarus is touched,
it clings to the object which touches it, and may be
removed. It appears to the naked eye as a white,
pearl-like spot.
Treat7nent, — Sulphur is a specific for Scabies : it
cures by killing the parasite. The patient should be
well washed, and if possible rubbed with a flesh-brush.
In the Hospital St. Louis, in Paris, soft soap is used
for half an hour, and then the part is rubbed with the
sulpho-alkaline ointment of Helmerick* for the same

* Lard 5viU-, Sulphur 5U-> Carbonate of Potash 5J.
i6o Scabies,

space of time. The patient is next placed in an
alkaline bath, and the clothes are fumigated with
sulphur. The sulphur ointment of the Pharmacopoeia
is likewise an excellent remedy. An alkaline appli-
cation in the first place removes the epidermis. Other
sulphur ointments have been used, as that of Jasser *

Essence of Lemon or of Bergamot dissipates the
smell of the sulphur. Bisulphuret of mercury conceals
its colour.
Devergie says that, when sulphur is objectionable a
daily bath containing two or three drachms of bichloride
of mercury will effect a cure.
Baths of iodide of potassium have also been used.
