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Summary Seventy-two children with nutritionaliron-deficiency anemia were given iron-dextran complex intramuscularly. The average gain in hemoglobin in the first and second weeks after intramuscular therapy was 2.1 and 2.2 Gm. per cent in the 28 uncomplicated cases, 1.8 and 1.7 Gm. per cent in 19 cases complicated by infection, and 0.7 and 1.3 Gm. per cent in 9 cases complicated by lead poisoning. In 12 patients, with uncomplicated iron-deficiency anemia, receiving weekly injections, the gain for the first week was 1.4 Gm. per cent and 2.3 Gm. per cent for the second week. In the oral-iron group, this gain was about 1.0 Gm. per cent each week. Only one patient had staining of the skin at the site of injection. One patient developed urticaria after an iron-dextran injection. From these observations, it wouldappear that in situations where a rapid elevation of hemoglobin is important, injection of iron intramuscularly is desirable. Intramuscular iron also provides for a faster and surer way of replenishing depleted iron stores. Another indication for intramuscular iron is that of a careless mother who might not give the oral medication.

To the Editor.— I beg to differ with your consultant's answer to the problems of acid saliva and perspiration in the French horn player (226:212, 1973). Saliva is normally slightly acid (pH 6 to 7). The usual dosage of antacid is not going to change it. Condensate in the brass (and woodwind) instruments is mostly from watersaturated breath with probably a negligible amount of saliva. The acidity of the liquid is from the dissolved carbon dioxide, ie, carbonic acid. Antacid will not help. For protection of the instrument, a coating of some type of clear plastic like that used for protecting paintings or to protect and waterproof furniture finish might help. Be sure the plastic is the kind that remains smooth when dry, and is not tacky. A coating on the tops of the valves probably will protect the instrument against perspiration. No musician can or will want to play