, sharply-defined, fatty-looking bodies found in microscopical
examination of the growth--are to be viewed as a form of epithelial
degeneration.

#What are the diagnostic points in molluscum epitheliale?#

The size of the lesions, their waxy or glistening appearance, and the
presence of the central orifice.

It is to be differentiated from molluscum fibrosum, warts and acne.

#State the prognosis.#

The growths are amenable to treatment. In some instances the disease,
after existing some weeks, tends to disappear spontaneously.

#What is the treatment of molluscum epitheliale?#

Incision and expression of the contents, and touching the base of the
cavity with silver nitrate. Pedunculated growths may be ligated. In some
cases an ointment of ammoniated mercury, twenty to forty grains to the
ounce, applied, by gently rubbing, once or twice daily, will bring about
a cure.

#Callositas.#
(_Synonyms:_ Tylosis; Tyloma; Callus; Callous; Callosity; Keratoma.)

#What do you understand by callositas?#

A hard, thickened, horny patch made up of the corneous layers of the
epidermis.

#Describe the clinical appearances.#

Callosities are most common about the hands and feet, and consist of
small or large patches of dry, grayish-yellow looking, hard, slight or
excessive epidermic accumulations. They are somewhat elevated,
especially at the central portion, and gradually merge into the healthy
skin. The natural surface lines are in a great measure obliterated, the
patches usually being smooth and horn-like.

_Keratosis palmaris et plantaris_ (symmetric keratodermia), as regards
the local condition, is a somewhat similar affection. It consists of
hypertrophy of the corneous layer of the palm and soles, usually of a
more or less horny and plate-like character, but is congenital or
hereditary, and not necessarily dependent upon local friction or
pressure.

#Are there any inflammatory symptoms in callositas?#

No; but exceptionally, from accidental injury, the subjacent corium
becomes inflamed, suppurates, and the thickened mass is cast off.

#State the causes of callositas.#

Pressure and friction; for example, on the hands, from the use of
various tools and implements, and on the feet from ill-fitting shoes. It
is, indeed, often to be looked upon as an effort of nature to protect
the more delicate corium.

In exceptional instances it arises without apparent cause.