PATENCY of the ductus arteriosus is a common congenital defect, but it is rare in very old age. In fact we know of no case confirmed at autopsy in a patient so old as John Wood, whom we describe and who lived to the age of 90 years, eight months and 11 days. Furthermore, it is equally remarkable that Mr. Wood, a textile manufacturer, lived such a strenuous life as he did until a few months before he died. His death was caused by heart failure and acute bilateral bronchopneumonia.A very interesting fact in the case of Mr. Wood . . .