Angelo DiGeorge

Bob Shprintzen and Angelo DiGeorge in Rome 2002

Angelo Mario DiGeorge (April 15, 1921 – October 11, 2009) was an American pediatric endocrinologist and professor of pediatrics at Temple University School of Medicine. He is best known for his discovery of DiGeorge syndrome, a disorder caused by the deletion of a small segment of chromosome 22.

Early Life and Education

Angelo DiGeorge was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He completed his undergraduate studies at Villanova University and earned his medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine in 1945. Following his graduation, DiGeorge completed his residency in pediatrics at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children in Philadelphia.

Career

DiGeorge joined the faculty at Temple University School of Medicine in 1950, where he worked for the majority of his career. He was a pioneer in the field of pediatric endocrinology and made significant contributions to the understanding of congenital disorders.

DiGeorge Syndrome

In the 1960s, DiGeorge identified a cluster of symptoms in children, including hypoparathyroidism, thymic aplasia, and cardiac anomalies. This cluster of symptoms was later named DiGeorge syndrome in his honor. The syndrome is now known to be caused by a deletion on chromosome 22q11.2 and is part of the larger spectrum of disorders known as 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.

Legacy

DiGeorge's work has had a lasting impact on the field of pediatric medicine. His identification of DiGeorge syndrome has led to improved diagnosis and treatment for affected individuals. DiGeorge received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the American Academy of Pediatrics' highest honor, the John Howland Award.

Personal Life

Angelo DiGeorge was married and had three children. He passed away on October 11, 2009, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

See Also

• DiGeorge syndrome
• 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
• Pediatric endocrinology
• Temple University School of Medicine