Abstract
I. From a thorough study of the literature, and from
my own clinical experience, the incidence of
Primary Bronchial Carcinoma is markedly and
definitely on the increase.
II. Though no definite etiological factor is found responsible for this disease or for the increased incidence,
the conclusion is drawn that some irritants
of unknown origin acting on the Bronchial Mucosa
play some Hart, and that these irritants are now
in greater concentration in the atmosphere than
formerly.
III.The only known instance where Primary Bronchial Carcinoma
occurs as an occupational disease is in the
miners of the Schneeberg. This is due to the
presence of certain unknown irritants peculiar to
these mines. A historical survey shows that the
occurrence, though not the nature, of this disease
was known from medieval times.
IV. The pathology is fully described and classified and
arguments advanced in favour of the new conception
of Barnard, and in explanation of the origin of
the different types of tumours.
V. There are no pathognomonic symptoms or physical signs,
but there are certain symptoms and signs which
which should arouse suspicion of the presence of
Primary Bronchial Carcinoma. All the symptoms
and signs are analysed according to their
frequency and importance in the series of fifty
nine cases, and the pathological conditions
giving rise to them are mentioned.
VI. The accessory methods of examination are described
and their indications, importance, and relative
merits emphasised.
VII. A short account of modern methods of treatment is
given, and finally tan clinical Casos are
described, including their X -ray appearances and
post-mortem reports.
