Edmund Symes-Thompson

British physician and lecturer

Edmund Symes-Thompson

Edmund Symes-Thompson (4 February 1837 – 10 September 1906) was a prominent British physician known for his contributions to the field of pulmonology and his role as a lecturer in medicine. He was a key figure in the development of medical education in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Early life and education

Edmund Symes-Thompson was born in London, England, on 4 February 1837. He was the son of Dr. Theophilus Thompson, a noted physician and one of the founders of the Royal Meteorological Society. Edmund was educated at Rugby School and later attended Trinity College, Cambridge, where he excelled in his studies. He completed his medical training at St Bartholomew's Hospital, one of the leading medical schools in London.

Medical career

Symes-Thompson began his medical career as a house physician at St Bartholomew's Hospital. He quickly developed an interest in diseases of the chest, particularly tuberculosis, which was a major public health issue at the time. His work in this area led to his appointment as a physician at the Brompton Hospital for Consumption and Diseases of the Chest, where he became known for his expertise in treating respiratory illnesses.

Contributions to pulmonology

Symes-Thompson was a pioneer in the study and treatment of pulmonary diseases. He published numerous papers on the subject and was an advocate for the use of sanatoriums in the treatment of tuberculosis. His work helped to establish the importance of specialized care for patients with chronic respiratory conditions.

Academic and teaching career

In addition to his clinical work, Symes-Thompson was a dedicated educator. He served as a lecturer in medicine at St Bartholomew's Hospital and was known for his engaging teaching style. He was also involved in the development of medical curricula and was a proponent of integrating clinical experience with theoretical learning.

Professional affiliations

Symes-Thompson was an active member of several professional organizations. He was a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and served as president of the Harveian Society of London. His contributions to the field of medicine were recognized by his peers, and he was highly respected within the medical community.

Personal life

Edmund Symes-Thompson married Mary Ann Symes in 1865, and they had several children. He was known for his philanthropic work and was involved in various charitable activities throughout his life. He was also a devout Christian and was active in the Church of England.

Death and legacy

Symes-Thompson passed away on 10 September 1906. His legacy lives on through his contributions to the field of pulmonology and his impact on medical education. He is remembered as a compassionate physician and a dedicated teacher who inspired many of his students to pursue careers in medicine.

Related pages

• Pulmonology
• Tuberculosis
• St Bartholomew's Hospital
• Brompton Hospital for Consumption and Diseases of the Chest