J. Fred Mullins

Management of bacterial infections of the skin.

The antibiotics have revolutionized the treatment of cutaneous bacterial infections although they have not replaced all other methods of treatment. The antibacterial spectrum and disadvantages of each antibiotic are summarized in this paper. In addition, diagnosis, predisposing factors, prognosis and therapeutic agents for the management of cutaneous pyogenic infections are discussed.

Theory and Use of Antibiotic Combinations: Part 2: Clinical Aspects

The following abstracts were prepared from papers presented at the Brook Lodge Invitational Symposium, held at Kalamazoo, Michigan, and sponsored by The Upjohn Company. Devoted to a discussion of the theory and use of antibiotic combinations, these abstracts are the second in a two part series representing the laboratory and the clinical aspects of the subject. Part 1 appeared in the October issue of Postgraduate Medicine.

Section on Dermatology of the American Medical Association

IN THE SECTION on Dermatology of the American Medical Association (AMA), we try to have a diversified program. Papers are accepted which deal with new drug evaluations, and it is always hoped that these are controlled studies. New or improved treatment approaches will be given a place on the program. An attempt is made to appeal to clinicians as well as basic science investigators in the field of dermatology. A rather large number of papers are reviewed and it is our purpose to try to judge these on quality as best possible. We also endeavor not to overbalance the program with a single individual or institution. National geographic distribution is taken into consideration with all papers. The section feels that this meeting gives another opportunity for the relatively unknown individual to present his work for review.

Cryotherapy for Snakebite

ABSTRACT To the Editor:— I feel compelled to respond to the recent critical commentary by Bierly and Buckley (195:575, 1966). As I have stated before in print, the individuals who use cryotherapy properly in the treatment of snakebite swear by it, and those who do not use it condemn it to the high heavens. I have treated over 40 snakebites with this method and think it is a wonderful adjunct to other measures.The only death which we have had related to snakebite was that of a serum-sickness reaction from the horse serum in the antivenin. This cause of death was confirmed by autopsy findings. In every instance where we have given more than two ampules of antivenin, we have had a serum-sickness reaction which in many instances was more serious than the snakebite itself.The article by Bierley and Buckley will allow a great deal of medicolegal vulnerability to

Lecture Notes on Dermatology

This is probably the best and definitely the cheapest small textbook for students and general practitioners. The authors comments in regard to anatomy, physiology, and pathology are adequate. The chapter dealing with history, physical cutaneous examination, and diagnosis is good. There are excellent and ample illustrations throughout the book, but in certain instances they are not in close proximity to the written word. The areas on treatment are good and not too voluminous, but there might have been additions to the section on baths. Too, it would have been well to mention some antibiotics other than erythromycin and tetracycline when discussing the treatment of pyodermas. The author might have commented about resistant Staphylococcus infections, but this was not done. Some of the newer treatments for tinea versicolor could have been mentioned, and tranquilizers, Temaril, and Periactin were not discussed. The reviewer should reemphasize the fact that he feels this is

Concise Medical Textbooks—Dermatology

In a review of this textbook, it should be stated that the format and content of the book are excellent. The introduction including the physiology and anatomy of the skin is brief but good. One of the most commendable aspects is the fact that it is by far the cheapest textbook which has been published to date. The section dealing with fungus infections of the skin will find a divergence of opinion in regard to the mycotic infections of the external auditory canal and the efficacy of griseofulvin for the treatment thereof. There are several features which detract from what is otherwise a good textbook for a beginner. First, the print is much smaller than that to which medical students in the United States are accustomed. Second, the book lacks eye appeal with the absence of photographs, and I am of the opinion that these are extremely necessary, for the