ABSTRACT
In order to discuss intelligently the treatment of hysteria, it will be necessary as in the case of neurasthenia first to acquire a clear conception as to the nature of the affection. Ollivier, Todd and Isaac Porter recognizing the nervous character of the symptoms maintained that hysteria had its origin in the spinal cord. What has been said of the sensory losses of hysteria applies equally to the exaggerations and perversions of sensation. Most frequently the hyperesthesias of hysteria are developed in certain situations as isolated patches. Special symptoms often complicate and retard the progress of the case. The patient seems at times to center her thoughts on a single feature of her case—a palsy, a painful area, nausea, or retention of urine—and the skilful treatment of such a symptom becomes the key to success or failure. The visceral symptoms of hysteria are extremely obstinate, becoming veritable obstacles to recovery.
