PINTA DISEASE


Homeopathy treatment of Pinta Disease, with indicated homeopathic remedies from the Diseases of the Skin by Frederick Myers Dearborn. …


(Spotted sickness; Caraate)

Definition. A contagious tropical disease due to several fungi, characterized by various shades of discoloration, accompanied by itching and scaling.

Symptoms. This peculiar affection is limited to the tropical portions of Mexico, Central and South American and appears in the form of scaly spots in various sizes, shapes, numbers and colors. It usually begins on the exposed portions such as the extremities and face but may involve any or all parts of the body, except the palms and soles. The spots extend peripherally, remain discrete or coalesce, are usually bilateral, seldom symmetrical, and only slightly raised above the surface. The disease may affected the white or colored races. In the former, a faint erythema is the primary manifestation. In the latter, yellow, red or gray coloration may be noticed. These colors may appear successively or be mingled together, but from two to five years may elapse before the final definite color is attained. The scales, while furfuraceous at first, frequently become larger and sometimes feel greasy or humid. Itching is in direct ratio to the scaling and may be intense. The odor of the skin is very offensive.

Etiology and Pathology. Both sexes and all ages, except young infants, are affected. Moisture as well as warmth appears essential to its development and an existing dermatitis plus unhygienic surroundings will act as a predisposing factor. The native or colored races are more susceptible to the disease than white people. It is due to several fungi of the aspergillus family, each possessing a distinguishing color. The fungus consists of mycelia and spores differing somewhat in minor particulars in the several varieties. The corneous layers of the epidermis furnishes the habitat but in some cases the corium may be involved.

Diagnosis. The color, odor and absence of constitutional symptoms, together with its endemic nature should make the diagnosis of Pinta disease easy.

Prognosis and Treatment. This disease is persistent and may leave behind atrophic spots but the general health is not affected. Eventually a cure may be expected but relapses are common. Treatment of the limited and superficial forms is the same as for tinea versicolor. The widely spread and deeper varieties need penetrating applications such as betanaphthol, iodin or chrysarobin in the same strengths as suggested for ringworm.

Frederick Dearborn
Dr Frederick Myers DEARBORN (1876-1960)
American homeopath, he directed several hospitals in New York.
Professor of dermatology.
Served as Lieut. Colonel during the 1st World War.
See his book online: American homeopathy in the world war