An abscess signifies a collection of matter - " a gathering," in fact. It begins with inflammation, as indicated externally by heat, tenderness, and swelling of the part. Abscesses are either external or internal. Internal abscesses are the results of inflammation, as of the liver, the lungs, etc. External abscess usually follows the inflammation set up by injuries, the presence of foreign bodies, etc.

The external abscess may be situated on any part of the body, and begins as a hard, painful swelling, which gradually enlarges and softens, and makes its way to the surface; the skin then inflames and breaks, allowing the matter to escape. The sides of the abscess slowly come together as the matter runs out, and at last heal. Deep-seated or diffuse abscesses do not run so favourable a course; they have no tendency to come to the surface, but rather burrow amongst muscles, cause sloughing of the connecting areolar tissue, and produce great constitutional excitement and exhaustion. These results must be anticipated, and prevented by lancing. In fact, in all cases the sooner the matter is let out the better, after the abscess has come to a head. An abscess ripe for lancing may be known by its soft, elastic, fluctuating feel - such a sensation as is produced by squeezing a ripe gooseberry. The opening should be large enough to allow free scope for the escape of matter, and it should, if possible, be made at the softest and lowest part of the abscess. To prevent adhesion of the lips of the cut, a tent - or narrow strip of tape, one or two inches long - should be put half in and half out of the abscess. Fomentations should be used if there be much pain; and the part previously denuded of hair by clipping, should be covered with a poultice, which should be changed at least night and morning. The poultices should be continued until all the matter has escaped, and then Calendula lotion,* dabbed on two or three times a-day will quickly help to heal up the wound.

Aconitum † should be given when symptoms of feverish excitement become manifested;

Hepar sulphuris when the matter is slow in coming to the surface of the skin; and Silicea when it is desirable or necessary to expedite the healing up of the parts.