Clifford Allbutt

Thomas Clifford Allbutt

Clifford Allbutt

Sir Thomas Clifford Allbutt (20 July 1836 – 22 February 1925) was a British physician and medical researcher best known for his invention of the clinical thermometer. His contributions to medicine and medical education were significant, and he held several prestigious positions throughout his career.

Early Life and Education

Clifford Allbutt was born in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, England. He was educated at St Peter's School, York and later attended Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, where he studied natural sciences and medicine. He graduated with a degree in medicine in 1859.

Medical Career

After completing his education, Allbutt worked at the Leeds General Infirmary and later became a physician at the Yorkshire Hospital. He was appointed as a lecturer in medicine at the University of Leeds and later became a professor of medicine at the University of Cambridge.

Invention of the Clinical Thermometer

One of Allbutt's most notable contributions to medicine was the invention of the clinical thermometer in 1866. Before his invention, thermometers were bulky and took up to 20 minutes to measure a patient's temperature. Allbutt's clinical thermometer was portable and provided accurate readings in just five minutes, revolutionizing the practice of diagnosis and patient care.

Other Contributions

Allbutt made significant contributions to the field of cardiology and was one of the first to describe the condition of angina pectoris. He also wrote extensively on the subject of neuroscience and was a pioneer in the study of mental health.

Honors and Recognition

In recognition of his contributions to medicine, Allbutt was knighted in 1907. He was also elected a Fellow of the Royal Society and served as the President of the British Medical Association.

Personal Life

Allbutt married Susan England in 1869, and they had no children. He was known for his dedication to his work and his passion for medical research.

Death

Clifford Allbutt passed away on 22 February 1925 in Cambridge, England. His legacy continues to influence the field of medicine to this day.

See Also

• Clinical thermometer
• Cardiology
• Neuroscience
• Mental health
• Royal Society
• British Medical Association