Eduard Hitzig

Eduard Hitzig (1898)

Eduard Hitzig (February 6, 1838 – August 20, 1907) was a German neurologist and psychiatrist known for his pioneering work in the field of neurophysiology. He is best remembered for his research on the electrical stimulation of the brain and its effects on motor function.

Early Life and Education

Eduard Hitzig was born in Berlin, Kingdom of Prussia. He studied medicine at the University of Berlin and the University of Würzburg, where he was influenced by prominent figures such as Rudolf Virchow and Franz Leydig. Hitzig earned his medical degree in 1862.

Career

Hitzig began his career as an assistant to Wilhelm Griesinger at the Charité Hospital in Berlin. He later served as a military physician during the Austro-Prussian War and the Franco-Prussian War. His experiences during these conflicts contributed to his interest in neurology and psychiatry.

Research on Electrical Stimulation

In 1870, Hitzig, along with Gustav Fritsch, conducted groundbreaking experiments on the cerebral cortex of dogs. They discovered that electrical stimulation of specific areas of the cortex produced movements in different parts of the body. This work provided crucial evidence for the localization of brain function and laid the foundation for modern neuroscience.

Later Work

Hitzig held several academic positions throughout his career, including a professorship at the University of Zurich and later at the University of Halle. He continued to research and publish on various topics related to neurology and psychiatry, including studies on epilepsy and brain injuries.

Legacy

Eduard Hitzig's contributions to the understanding of brain function have had a lasting impact on the fields of neurology, neurosurgery, and neuropsychology. His work on electrical stimulation of the brain is considered a cornerstone in the history of neuroscience.

Related Pages

• Gustav Fritsch
• Cerebral cortex
• Neurophysiology
• Localization of brain function
• Epilepsy
• Brain injuries