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79
The value of these examinations in phthisis cannot be
over-estimated. The medical profession are encouraged to send
in sputa of all doubtful cases, and in this way the earliest
information is obtained of cases of phthisis. This in itself is
most valuable to the persons affected, as it enables the early
recognition of the disease and the adoption of curative measures
before the disease has seriously advanced.
In January, a large number of tins of condensed milk
of a cheap brand were found. From mere inspection, it was
difficult to prove that they were unsound. Bacterioscopic
examination showed that decomposition had set in, and that
the milk contained a large number of bacteria, which rendered
it unfit for dietetic use. On representing these facts to the
owners the condensed milk was destroyed voluntarily.
As another example of the usefulness of these examinations,
I have only to mention the case which occurred at
All Saints' Boys' Orphanage. In October a case of
diphtheria occurred. Twelve contacts were isolated, and
their throats swabbed and examined. One swab contained
the specific organisms of diphtheria, and the boy in
question was isolated, thus preventing the extension of the
disease. But for the examination, this case, showing no clinical
symptoms of diphtheria, would probably have passed unnoticed.