[Illustration: Fig. 27. Sycosis.] #Is constitutional treatment of no avail in sycosis?# In some instances; but, as a rule, it is negative. If indicated, such remedies as tonics, alteratives, cod-liver oil and the like are to be prescribed. #Describe the external treatment.# Crusting, if present, is to be removed by warm embrocations. If the inflammation is of a high grade, and the parts tender and painful, soothing applications, such as bland oils, black wash and oxide-of-zinc ointment, cold cream and petrolatum, are to be used; boric-acid solution, fifteen grains to the ounce, may be advised in place of black wash. In most cases, however, astringent and stimulating remedies are demanded from the start, such as: diachylon ointment, alone or with ten to thirty grains of calomel to the ounce; oleate of mercury, as a five- to twenty-per-cent. ointment; precipitated sulphur, one to three drachms to the ounce of benzoated lard, or lard and lanolin; a ten- to twenty-five-per-cent. ichthyol ointment; and resorcin lotion or ointment, ten to twenty per cent. strength. [Illustration: Fig. 28. Sycosis.] A change from one application to another will be found necessary in almost all cases. In obstinate cases the x-ray treatment can be used, as it has proved itself valuable in some instances; as in other diseases, it should be employed cautiously. #What would you advise in regard to shaving?# When bearable (and after a few days' application of soothing remedies it almost always is), it is to be advised in all cases, as it materially aids in the treatment. After a cure is effected it should be continued for some months, until the healthy condition of the parts is thoroughly established. #When is depilation advisable as a therapeutic measure?# When the suppurative process is active, in order to save the follicles from destruction; incising or puncturing the pustules will often accomplish the same end. Depilation is in all cases a valuable therapeutic measure, but it is painful; as a routine practice, shaving is less objectionable and, upon the whole, is probably as satisfactory. Those who make free use of the x-ray commonly push it to the point of producing depilation. #Dermatitis Papillaris Capillitii.# (_Synonym:_ Acne Keloid.) [Illustration: Fig. 29. Dermatitis Papillaris Capillitii.] #Describe dermatitis papillaris capillitii.#