The Seven Books of Paulus Ægineta, Volume 2, translated by Francis Adams, is a significant medical text from the 6th century that offers a comprehensive view of ancient medical knowledge. This volume delves into various diseases, treatments, and surgical practices, reflecting the medical understanding of the Greeks, Romans, and Arabians of that era.​

The second volume begins with an in-depth examination of elephantiasis, a chronic and often incurable disease. It outlines the origins and symptoms of the disease, emphasizing its severity and the challenges in treating it. The text provides various treatment methods, including bloodletting, purging with specific remedies, and dietary practices that may help alleviate the condition at its onset. The commentary also references various ancient and contemporary medical sources, illustrating a blend of inherited wisdom and prevailing beliefs about contagious diseases and their treatments.​

Additionally, the volume addresses other medical conditions such as contusions, ecchymosis, and the dracunculus (Guinea worm), offering detailed descriptions and recommended treatments. For instance, it suggests scarification and the application of specific poultices for contusions, while for the dracunculus, it recommends gradual extraction methods and the use of various medicinal substances. These treatments reflect the empirical approaches of ancient physicians, combining observation with practical interventions.​

The Seven Books of Paulus Ægineta, Volume 2 serves as a valuable historical document that sheds light on the medical practices of ancient civilizations. Through its detailed accounts of diseases and treatments, it provides insight into the evolution of medical knowledge and the enduring quest to understand and combat illness. The work underscores the importance of empirical observation and the transmission of medical knowledge across cultures and generations.