Synopsis and nosoloty, being an arrangement and definition of diseases

Cullen, William (1710-90). Synopsis and nosology, being an arrangement of diseases. 16mo. xxxiv, 80pp. Springfield [MA]: Edward Gray for Nathaniel Patten, 1793. 149 x 81 mm. Sheep ca. 1793, gilt spine with leather label, light wear, small wormhole in front cover. Light toning but very good.

Second edition, first published in 1792, of this abridged translation of the "Genera morborum" from Cullen's Synopsis nosologiae methodicae (1769). Drawing from the Linnean system of general systematics, Cullen classified diseases into four categories: fevers, nervous disorders, cachexias (diseases resulting from a bad habit of body), and local diseases. At the time, this system seemed a great improvement, and Cullen's reputation was substantially increased by its publication. Austin, Early American Medical Imprints, no. 582.