We have referred to use of röntgenograms in connection with separation
of the epiphyses, subperiosteal hemorrhage, cardiac enlargement and
beading of the ribs. In addition to its application in these
connections, the X-ray may be of service to show a peculiar alteration
of the ends of the long bones--_the white line of Fraenkel_. This is
portrayed in Fig. 20. It is best seen at the lower ends of the radius
and femur, and appears as a white, transverse, somewhat irregular band.
Its diagnostic value has been greatly exaggerated, as it is frequently
not present when the disease is advanced (observe radiographs
illustrating separation of the epiphyses). This sign should therefore
not be relied on for establishing the diagnosis. Furthermore, changes
may be seen in connection with rickets (cases receiving antiscorbutic
diet) which are very difficult to differentiate from the "white line."
It cannot be employed as a criterion of the progress of the case, as it
may persist for months after all other signs and symptoms have
disappeared.
[Illustration: FIG. 20.--Radiograph. Infant 14 months of age, showing
"_white line_" at wrist some months after cure of scurvy.]
The joints may be involved in scurvy. In most instances, however, where
swelling of the joints is diagnosed, the lesion is periarticular. An
effusion of serum or of blood does occur occasionally into the joints
and has been found at operation, at necropsy, and by puncture. If these
effusions are allowed to go undisturbed, to be absorbed as a result of
antiscorbutic treatment, they rarely suppurate. Czerny and Keller
report the articular fluid as invariably sterile.
The cardiovascular system has been given but scant attention in
connection with scurvy. Adults complain not infrequently of palpitation
and pain over the pericardium, or rather of a tightness or oppression in
the chest. Little information is given regarding the size of the heart.
Darling described enlargement of the heart, especially a right-sided
hypertrophy, which he thought was pathognomonic of the Rand type of
scurvy. The pulse is described in some cases as slow, and in others as
rapid. In descriptions of infantile scurvy the entire subject is
generally passed over without mention--for example, in the excellent
report of the American Pediatric Society nothing whatsoever is stated
regarding the heart's action or the pulse. Barlow wrote: "There is
nothing to note regarding the heart and lungs."
In a paper written a few years ago, it was pointed out by the author
that there is frequently enlargement of the heart, and more especially
of the right heart. This can be elicited at the bedside and has been
substantiated in numerous cases by means of the Röntgen-ray, which
demonstrates not only enlargement of the heart, but also a marked
broadening at its base, at the site of the large vessels (Fig. 21).
These phenomena resemble closely the description of Reinhard in cases of
beriberi.
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