Otolaryngologic aspects of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, 1803-1806.

Medical difficulties related to otolaryngology that occurred during the Lewis & Clark Expedition (1803-1806) are highlighted. These difficulties included ear and face frostbite, upper respiratory infections, temporal vessel laceration from an air gun accident, neck scrofula, and a pediatric neck mass. The custom of Clatsop Indian head flattening is also described. These descriptions also aim to illustrate the state of otolaryngology during the early 19th century in America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]