Psychopathology

Abstract

VERY briefly the method of pyrifer administration and its reactions are given. In general paralysis with this form of treatment the results in 1933 were 15 cases, with six patients improved, or if the advanced cases were excluded, 10 cases with six improved. The total figures for malarial treatment during the same period were 13 cases with five improved. In schizophrenia 21 cases have finished the course of treatment; of these eight have shown some improvement. It seems that pyrifer might be regarded as a valuable therapeutic preparation which, if the results are permanent, will compare favourably with malaria, or at any rate will provide a useful alternative. It would appear that pyrifer has certain advantages compared with malarial treatment as it avoids the introduction into the patient's system of a serious infectious malady which taxes his strength to the utmost. The height of the temperature can be readily controlled, and this makes it possible for the treatment to be applied to old and feeble patients. It is borne very well and is comparatively free from danger. There is no pain following the injection, and a further advantage is that it can be combined with specific antisyphilitic treatment introduced during the fever therapy. The time of the pyrexia can be arranged-a point of no little importance. C. S. R.