For the purposes of a critical résumé, recent additions to the literature on otolaryngology may conveniently be divided into three classes, each requiring a different method of treatment. The first includes case reports and theses which are corroborative of previously accepted work. While such papers enrich our sources of reference, to discuss their details in a summary of this kind would take us too far afield. The second group comprises articles which mark a definite and recognizable advance. The salient points of these must be discussed in the light of our present knowledge. The third and last division embraces those contributions which present new ideas that cannot be immediately accepted, but which must be discussed and studied before a final judgment of them is made. As far as possible, all the material commented on in all the groups is such as would tend to stimulate scientific discussion.
ETIOLOGY