Scrofula is a disease which manifests itself in various parts of the body and is doubtless a blood disease. It most usually breaks out on the skin, but may affect the mucous membranes, bones, tissues, glands, and in fact almost any part of the body may become diseased from scrofula. The tubercle bacilli are found in scrofulous sores, and it is not known whether it is the cause, or whether it appears after the disease, but it is now believed that tuberculosis and hereditary syphilis cover most or all cases of scrofula. Both the disease and a scrofulous tendency seem to be hereditary, as well as acquired, from improper feeding, and unsanitary surroundings. Scrofulous children usually have white skins, delicate blue veins large, lustrous eyes and show an irritable, nervous disposition and premature brightness.

Diet should consist of cereals, milk, eggs, and nuts.