In late 1917 I had a painful swelling at the soft palate, it soon receeded after I lit up a cigar. It is now 1923 and I have a leukoplastic growth on my jaw and palate. Just now, on April 7 1923 Felix Deutsch does not agree with epithelioma and talks about a “bad leukoplakia”. I will consult a rhinologist to excise the growth. Nobody mentioned the dread word cancer although they recommend that I quit the cigars. Nevertheless before leaving for the cosmetic procedure I ask for the advice of a maxillofacial surgeon.
Dear Patient, I am Prof. R. E., an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Vienna. I have carefully reviewed your medical history as documented in Pichler’s notes and relevant literature regarding your current condition. Your initial experience of a painful swelling at the soft palate in late 1917, which resolved upon smoking cigars, is consistent with […]