[Is medicine's symbol on its way out?].

Dracunculiasis is an ancient disease which international organizations are working to eradicate. It has been suggested that the caduceus and Aesculap's staff may be based on the treatment of dracunculiasis from the time of Hippocrates, which is still the most modern treatment available. The article discusses dracunculiasis with emphasis on the historical aspects and the possible connection with the symbol of medicine--a snake wound around a staff.