Koch's Lymph (TUBERCULIN)

Sterilized, glycerine extract of the ptomains, resulting from the growth of the specific germ of consumption; prepared 1891 by Dr. R. Koch, and by him supposed to exert a curative action. A small dose hypodermically injected causes a fever (reaction) if tuberculosis is present, usually noticeable within 12 hours after injection. The disease is really aggravated by its use; the lymph is now applied to the detection of tuberculous cattle, which in many States are directed by law to be destroyed. In this way it is hoped that consumption among cattle may be eradicated, and that an important source of infection of mankind, through the milk from diseased cows, may be eliminated.