Scurvy, which may resemble the severe grade of purpura, has a different history, a recognizable cause, usually a peculiar distribution, and is accompanied with general weakness and a spongy, soft and bleeding condition of the gums. #What is the pathology of purpura?# The lesion of purpura consists essentially of a hemorrhage into the cutaneous tissues. The blood is subsequently absorbed, the haematin undergoing changes of color from a red to greenish and pale yellow, and finally fading away. #State the prognosis# The milder varieties disappear in the course of several weeks or months, and are rarely of serious import; the outcome of purpura haemorrhagica is somewhat uncertain; although usually favorable, a fatal result from internal hemorrhage is possible. The variety known as Schoenlein's disease is alarming, but seldom fatal. Henoch's disease is, however, always of grave import. #What is the treatment of purpura?# Hygienic and dietary measures, the administration of tonics and astringents, and, in severe cases, by relative or absolute rest. The drugs commonly prescribed are: ergot, oil of erigeron, oil of turpentine, quinia, strychnia, iron, mineral acids, and gallic acid. _External_ treatment is rarely called for, but if deemed advisable, astringent lotions may be employed. #Scorbutus.# (_Synonyms:_ Scurvy; Sea Scurvy; Purpura Scorbutica.) #Describe scorbutus.# Scurvy is a peculiar constitutional state, developed in those living under bad hygienic conditions, and is characterized by emaciation, general febrile and asthenic symptoms, a more or less swollen, turgid and spongy and even gangrenous condition of the gums; and concomitantly, or sooner or later, by the appearance, usually upon the lower portion of the legs only, of dark-colored hemorrhagic patches or blotches. The skin of the affected part may become brawny and slightly scaly, and not infrequently may break down and ulcerate. Hemorrhages from the various mucous surfaces, slight or grave, may also take place. #State the etiology of scurvy.# It is due to long-continued deprivation of proper food, especially of fruits and vegetables. Other bad hygienic conditions favor its development. It is seen most commonly in sailors and others taking long voyages. #How is scurvy to be distinguished from purpura?# By the asthenic and emaciated general condition and the peculiar puffy, spongy state of the gums. The cutaneous manifestation is more diffused, forming usually large palm-sized patches, and, as a rule, limited to the region of the ankles or lower part of the legs. #Give the prognosis of scurvy.# The disease is remediable, and usually rapidly so. In those instances in which the same bad hygienic conditions and the ingestion of improper food are continued, death finally results. #What treatment would you advise in scurvy?#