Robert Willan

Robert Willan

Portrait of Robert Willan
Name	Robert Willan
Birth name
Birth date	12 November 1757
Birth place	Thelwall, Cheshire, England
Death date	7 April 1812
Death place	Madeira, Portugal
Alma mater
Occupation	Physician, Dermatologist
Years active
Organization
Known for
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Robert Willan (12 November 1757 – 7 April 1812) was a pioneering British physician and dermatologist, widely regarded as one of the founders of modern dermatology. His systematic approach to the classification of skin diseases laid the groundwork for future dermatological studies.

Early Life and Education

Robert Willan was born in Thelwall, Cheshire, England. He was educated at Sedbergh School and later attended the University of Edinburgh, where he studied medicine. Willan graduated with an MD in 1780, presenting a thesis on "De Jecinoris Inflammatione" (On Inflammation of the Liver).

Career

After completing his education, Willan moved to London, where he began practicing medicine. He became a member of the Royal College of Physicians in 1791. Willan was appointed physician to the Carey Street Dispensary, where he worked extensively with patients suffering from skin diseases.

Contributions to Dermatology

Robert Willan is best known for his work in dermatology. He was the first to classify skin diseases based on their physical appearance, a method that was revolutionary at the time. His seminal work, On Cutaneous Diseases, published in parts from 1798 to 1808, provided detailed descriptions and illustrations of various skin conditions.

Willan's classification system divided skin diseases into eight categories based on their primary lesions: papulae, squamae, exanthemata, bullae, vesiculae, pustulae, tubercula, and maculae. This systematic approach allowed for more accurate diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions.

Legacy

Robert Willan's contributions to dermatology were foundational. His work influenced many future dermatologists, including Thomas Bateman, who continued Willan's work after his death. The Willan-Bateman classification system remained a standard in dermatology for many years.

Willan's name is commemorated in the Willan's itch, a term historically used to describe a form of pruritus.

Death

Robert Willan died on 7 April 1812 in Madeira, Portugal, where he had traveled in an attempt to improve his health.

Also see

• Thomas Bateman
• History of dermatology
• Classification of skin diseases
• Royal College of Physicians