Summary
Due to prevalence of syphilis in the 19th and early 20th century the incidence of 'general paralysis of the insane' (GPI) was very common. Spinal lumbar puncture was a routine test for any patient in asylums considered to have GPI. Fluid extracted from spine & tested for syphilis spirochetes.Used in Victorian mental health hospital circa 1930.
Physical Description
Springfield's spinal needle is a very fine tube of chrome-plated brass (or gold?). It has a hollow, scalpel-type blade and a handle shaped like tiny doorknob with a pin sticking out of the bottom which fits into a groove on the top of the sheath handle. The fine tubular, chrome-plated steel sheath also has a scalpel-type point. The needle inside reaches exactly to the open end of the sheath. The handle has a flat, round piece surmounted by a ball, to which is attached a minute tap which only turns when the needle is out. There is a ridged hose attachment.
More Information
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Collection Names
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Donation from Office of Psychiatric Services, May 1985
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Place & Date Used
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Inscriptions
Engraved: BRITISH MADE.
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Object Measurements
20 mm (Width), 127 mm (Depth), 22 mm (Height)
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References
card with exhibit.
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Keywords
Psychiatric Hospitals, Surgical Apparatus & Instruments, Syphilis, Making History - Psych Services
