The essential factor in the causation of angina pectoris

Abstract

The object of the following thesis is to discuss, and if possible determine more exactly than has hitherto been done) the essential cause of cardiac pain; with a view to doing so I propose relating as shortly as possible what we already know, and the theories that have been evolved by various writers on the subject, of the conditions frequently associated with this symptom; drawing especial attention to that degree of cardiac pain which originally attracted the attention of Heberden and which he named Angina Pectoris. I approach the sub- ject with considerable diffidence knowing as I do the work that has already been done by so many of the ablest physicians, both those of the past and those no less distinguished who are still adding to our knowledge of the subject, such as Powel, Fraser, Gibson, Morison, Russel, Mackenzie etc., in this country and others in America and on the continent.

I do not propose reporting a series of cases and then discussing them, nor going into the question of treatment except in so far as it may help us to elucidate the cause or causes of this comparatively rare but par- ticularly interesting disease; but will give a general account of the History, Anatomy, Physiology, Aetiology and Symptomatology of the affection with mention of my own observations concluding with the conclusions which seem to me to result from this study of the subject.