In 1746, Dr. John Buchanan, a recently retired medical officer in the British Army, produced a manuscript, 'Regimental Practice, or a Short History of Diseases common to His Majesties own Royal Regiment of Horse Guards when abroad (Commonly called the Blews).' Revised almost until the time of Buchananan's death in 1767, it was primarily based on the author's observations while surgeon to a cavalry regiment serving in Flanders 1742-45 during the War of the Austrian Succession.