AUTO-INFECTION AS A FACTOR IN NERVOUS DISEASES.

Abstract

Clinical observers have described the characteristic phenomena of various neuroses; also of organic nerve lesions whose etiology can only be ascribed to auto-infection or intoxication resulting from non-elimination of the products of metabolism, or the absorption of ptomains arising from the action of the ever-present bacteria on the accumulations of retained excreta in the alimentary canal. Alienists have frequently called attention to the relation existing between a constipated or sluggish condition of the bowels and melancholia, dementia and depressed intellectual powers. It is the opinion of the writer, that the ptomains or toxins and toxalbumins arising from bad digestion and faulty elimination are greater factors in disease than has yet been stated by writers on this subject. For the purpose of bringing this subject before this society in such a manner as to elicit an intelligent discussion, let us first inquire into some of the physiologic acts of the digestive