This term implies any abrasion, peeling off, or separation of the cuticle, by which the sensitive and true skin is left unprotected. Many persons are subject to excoriation or chafing, from the slightest muscular exertion, more particularly in such parts as are exposed to friction. In general, excoriation is the result of inattention to the surface of the body, and is frequently excited by perspiration and dust or fine particles of sand adhering to the cuticle, and being rubbed by the play of the muscles into the lines and creases of the body. The perspiration secreted by fatiguing exertion will, from its acridity, if left on the body, very frequently act as an irritant on the cuticle and destroy its texture. Cleanliness, therefore, whether with adult or infant, is the best preventive against this painful affection. The treatment of excoriation, when occurring in those parts of the body usually covered, should consist in first washing the place with warm water, and when well dried by a soft towel, to be freely dusted with violet powder, repeating the application every two hours: for all that is necessary is to remove the exciting cause, and keep the part cool and covered. When the abrasion is deep seated, a piece of lint wetted with the liquor plumbi (extract of lead), is to be laid on for an hour, and on its removal the abrasion dusted with violet powder or common flour; no other lotion will be needed, and ointments or grease should never be employed. GOITRE. Bronchocele, or the Derbyshire Neck, as this disease is variously called, is a chronic enlargement of the thyroid gland, a small glandular body lying in front of the organ of voice in the throat, and which in a natural state presents no external features, but when diseased, is capable of an almost incredible enlargement. Goitre is distinguished by a diffused, soft, elastic swelling, extending either quite across the neck, presenting larger prominence on either side than in the centre, or the enlargement may be all on one side, according as the whole gland, or only one of its lobes is affected. The swelling is entirely devoid of pain, and completely detached from the skin, which preserves its natural colour and appearance. Goitres usually make their appearance about the seventh or eighth year, and at first grow very slowly, but after a time develope more rapidly, extending in all directions, and frequently hanging over the chest. The disease is seldom dangerous, unless, from the size it attains when by pressing on the large blood-vessels of the neck, and retarding the return of blood from the head, or by compressing the windpipe, it produces dangerous symptoms. Women are more subject to this disease than men, though in many countries where it is always endemic, both sexes and all ages are found affected with it.