Max Samter

Max Samter

Name	Max Samter
Birth name
Birth date	February 15, 1908
Birth place	Berlin, Germany
Death date	February 9, 1999
Death place	Chicago, Illinois, United States
Alma mater
Occupation	Immunologist
Years active
Organization
Known for	Samter's Triad
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Max Samter (February 15, 1908 – February 9, 1999) was a prominent immunologist known for his contributions to the understanding of allergic diseases and immunodeficiency. He is best remembered for identifying and describing Samter's Triad, a condition characterized by asthma, nasal polyps, and aspirin sensitivity.

Early Life and Education

Max Samter was born in Berlin, Germany, where he developed an early interest in the sciences. He pursued his medical education at the University of Berlin, earning his medical degree in 1932. Due to the rise of the Nazi regime, Samter, who was of Jewish descent, emigrated to the United States in 1938.

Career

Upon arriving in the United States, Samter continued his research in immunology. He held various academic positions, including a professorship at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. His research focused on the mechanisms of allergic reactions and the role of the immune system in chronic diseases.

Samter's Triad

Max Samter is best known for his work on what is now called Samter's Triad, a condition that affects a subset of patients with asthma. This triad includes:

• Asthma
• Nasal polyps
• Aspirin sensitivity

Samter's research demonstrated that these three conditions often occur together, leading to a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and guiding treatment strategies for affected patients.

Contributions to Immunology

In addition to his work on Samter's Triad, Max Samter made significant contributions to the field of immunodeficiency. He was involved in early research on primary immunodeficiency disorders, helping to classify and understand these complex conditions. His work laid the foundation for future advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of immune system disorders.

Legacy

Max Samter's legacy in the field of immunology is marked by his dedication to understanding the complexities of the immune system and its role in allergic diseases. His work continues to influence modern research and clinical practices.

Also see

• Immunology
• Allergy
• Asthma
• Nasal polyps
• Aspirin sensitivity
• Primary immunodeficiency