George Harley (physician)

George Harley. Lithograph, 1873. Wellcome V0002569

George Harley

George Harley Silvy

George Harley (1829–1896) was a renowned British physician and pathologist known for his significant contributions to medical science during the 19th century. Harley was born in Haddington, East Lothian, Scotland, and pursued his education in medicine at the University of Edinburgh, where he graduated with his medical degree. He furthered his studies in Paris and Berlin, focusing on chemistry and pathology, which played a crucial role in his medical career.

Early Life and Education

George Harley was born on February 12, 1829. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in the sciences, which led him to the University of Edinburgh. After completing his medical degree, Harley's quest for knowledge took him across Europe, where he studied under prominent scientists of the time. This experience broadened his understanding and expertise, particularly in the fields of chemistry and pathology.

Career

Upon returning to London, Harley established himself as a leading physician and pathologist. He was appointed as a lecturer at the University College London (UCL), where he taught physiology and served as a physician at the University College Hospital. Harley's research was pioneering, particularly in the areas of liver and kidney diseases. He was one of the first to suggest the possibility of treating diabetes by pancreas extracts, a concept that would later lead to the discovery of insulin.

Harley was also known for his invention of the "Harley's test," a diagnostic procedure for detecting bile pigments in the urine, which was an important diagnostic tool for liver diseases at the time.

Contributions to Medicine

George Harley's contributions to medicine were vast and varied. He published numerous articles and books on different aspects of medicine, including diseases of the liver, kidneys, and the blood. His work was characterized by a rigorous scientific approach and a deep understanding of the pathological and physiological aspects of diseases.

Later Life and Legacy

Harley continued to work and teach until his health began to decline. He passed away on September 27, 1896, leaving behind a legacy of medical advancements and contributions to the field of pathology. Today, he is remembered as a pioneer in medical science, whose work helped to lay the groundwork for future discoveries.

Selected Works

• On the Urine and Its Derangements (Lecture Notes)
• The Simplification of the Nomenclature of the Microscope (Article)

Honours and Awards

Throughout his career, George Harley received numerous accolades for his contributions to medicine. His dedication to the field was recognized by his peers and by various medical societies.

See Also

• History of Medicine
• Pathology
• Physiology