HLTB21H3 Chapter : 11 Plagues without Germs.docx
11 Sep 2013
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Confidence in one germ, one disease led to the identification and control of many infectious diseases, but this also fueled bias that hampered the uncovering of the causes of deficiency diseases; plagues without germs. Known as pellagra, unheard of today but killer in its time. First describes in spain; 1735: mal de la rosa meaning the red disease. Appeared first as skin rash that covered hands, feet & sketched an ugly butterfly pattern across the neck. Early stages: reddening of skin resembling sunburn, when skin crusted or peeled away showing smooth shiny skin under then a diagnosis of pellagra was certain. Skin of hand is rough and dead and harsh. Flaming of the skin was the signature of disease, also loss of balance, staggering gait, and senseless muttering characterized the disease. Weak and melancholy, tongue became reddened, burning sensation in mouth & diarrhea. Clinical symptoms: 4d"s diarrhea, dermatitis, dementia, and death.
