45 - The French Disease at 500
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This chapter explores the profound influence of syphilis on the evolution of modern medicine, examining its history and the changing treatments over centuries. Engaging discussions and audience interaction shed light on the connections between this disease and the development of germ theory and medical practices.
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In 1495, a mysterious and deadly plague struck the city of Naples. Over the next 500 years, the medical attempts to understand and treat this new disease -- syphilis -- would mold and shape medicine in surprising ways. In this episode, Tony Breu and I will perform an historical and physiological biography of syphilis, covering the development of germ theory, epic poetry, mercury saunas, intentionally infecting patients with malaria, magic bullets, and lots and lots of experiments on poor rabbits. This presentation was performed live at the American College of Physicians’ national meeting in Philadelphia on April 11, 2019.
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