Heinrich von Recklinghausen

Von Recklinghausen Oscillotonometer

Heinrich von Recklinghausen (December 17, 1833 – August 26, 1910) was a prominent German pathologist known for his significant contributions to medical science, particularly in the field of pathology. He is best known for his discovery and description of neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder now commonly referred to as Recklinghausen's disease.

Early Life and Education

Heinrich von Recklinghausen was born in Gütersloh, Westphalia, Germany. He pursued his medical studies at the University of Bonn, the University of Würzburg, and the University of Berlin. He earned his medical degree in 1855.

Career

Recklinghausen began his career as an assistant to Rudolf Virchow, a renowned pathologist, at the Charité in Berlin. He later held professorships at the University of Würzburg, the University of Strasbourg, and the University of Berlin.

Contributions to Medicine

Recklinghausen made several key contributions to the field of pathology:

Neurofibromatosis

In 1882, he described a condition characterized by multiple benign tumors of the nerves, which he named neurofibromatosis. This condition is now commonly known as Recklinghausen's disease.

Hemochromatosis

Recklinghausen also conducted significant research on hemochromatosis, a disorder characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the body.

Other Contributions

He made notable contributions to the understanding of osteitis fibrosa cystica, a bone disorder, and lymphangiectasia, a condition involving the lymphatic system.

Legacy

Recklinghausen's work laid the foundation for further research in genetic disorders and pathology. His name is immortalized in the medical community through terms such as Recklinghausen's disease and Recklinghausen's sign.

Related Pages

• Neurofibromatosis
• Recklinghausen's disease
• Pathology
• Rudolf Virchow
• Hemochromatosis
• Osteitis fibrosa cystica
• Lymphangiectasia