Robert Hollenhorst

Robert Hollenhorst (1913–2008) was an American ophthalmologist known for his contributions to the field of ophthalmology, particularly in the study of retinal vascular diseases. He is best known for identifying the Hollenhorst plaque, a cholesterol embolus that can be seen in the retina and is indicative of carotid artery disease.

Early Life and Education

Robert Hollenhorst was born in 1913. He pursued his medical education at the University of Minnesota, where he earned his medical degree. He completed his residency in ophthalmology at the same institution, where he later joined the faculty.

Career

Hollenhorst's career was primarily based at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He joined the Mayo Clinic in 1946 and became a prominent figure in the field of ophthalmology. His research focused on the relationship between systemic vascular diseases and ocular manifestations.

Hollenhorst Plaque

The Hollenhorst plaque is a cholesterol embolus that can be observed in the retinal arteries during an eye examination. The presence of these plaques is a significant indicator of carotid artery disease and can be a precursor to more severe cardiovascular events such as strokes. Hollenhorst's identification of these plaques has had a lasting impact on the diagnosis and management of vascular diseases.

Contributions to Ophthalmology

In addition to his work on the Hollenhorst plaque, Robert Hollenhorst made numerous contributions to the understanding of retinal vascular diseases. He published extensively in medical journals and was a respected educator and mentor to many ophthalmologists.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Hollenhorst received several awards and honors for his contributions to medicine and ophthalmology. He was a member of various professional organizations and served on multiple editorial boards.

Legacy

Robert Hollenhorst's work continues to influence the field of ophthalmology. The identification of the Hollenhorst plaque remains a critical component of retinal examinations and the assessment of cardiovascular risk.

See Also

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal vascular disease
• Carotid artery disease
• Mayo Clinic