Adolf Weil (physician)

Ruperto Carola 500-12 Adolf Weil

Adolf Weil (7 February 1848 – 23 July 1916) was a German physician and professor of medicine who is best known for describing Weil's disease, a severe form of leptospirosis.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Adolf Weil was born in Heidelberg, Germany. He studied medicine at the University of Heidelberg, where he earned his medical degree in 1871. After completing his studies, he worked in various hospitals and clinics, gaining experience in internal medicine.

Career[edit | edit source]

Weil became a professor of medicine at the University of Heidelberg and later at the University of Dorpat (now University of Tartu in Estonia). He was known for his work in internal medicine and made significant contributions to the understanding of various diseases.

Weil's Disease[edit | edit source]

In 1886, Adolf Weil described a severe form of leptospirosis, which later became known as Weil's disease. This condition is characterized by jaundice, renal failure, and hemorrhage. His detailed description of the disease helped in the early diagnosis and treatment of leptospirosis.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Adolf Weil's contributions to medicine, particularly his work on Weil's disease, have had a lasting impact. His research has paved the way for further studies on leptospirosis and its treatment.