Friedrich Albert von Zenker

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FAZenker

Friedrich Albert von Zenker (March 13, 1825 – June 13, 1898) was a German physician and pathologist known for his discovery of trichinosis in humans. His work significantly advanced the understanding of parasitic diseases and their impact on human health.

Early Life and Education

Friedrich Albert von Zenker was born in Dresden, Kingdom of Saxony. He studied medicine at the University of Leipzig and the University of Heidelberg, where he was influenced by prominent medical figures of the time.

Career

Zenker began his medical career as an assistant at the Pathological Institute in Dresden. He later became a professor of pathology and anatomy at the University of Erlangen in 1862. During his tenure, he conducted extensive research on various diseases, including trichinosis, which he identified in 1860.

Discovery of Trichinosis

Zenker's most notable contribution to medicine was his discovery of the life cycle of the Trichinella spiralis parasite, which causes trichinosis. He demonstrated that the disease was transmitted to humans through the consumption of undercooked pork containing the larvae of the parasite. This discovery led to significant changes in meat inspection and public health policies to prevent the spread of the disease.

Later Life and Legacy

Zenker continued his research and teaching until his retirement. He passed away in Erlangen, Kingdom of Bavaria, in 1898. His work laid the foundation for modern parasitology and significantly improved the understanding of parasitic infections.

Related Pages

• Trichinosis
• Trichinella spiralis
• University of Leipzig
• University of Heidelberg
• University of Erlangen
• Pathology
• Parasitology