45 - The French Disease at 500
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Historical Treatments and Theories of Syphilis
This chapter examines the effects of syphilis on various organs, particularly noting the rarity of lung involvement. It explores the historical context of syphilis treatments, including the controversial use of mercury and the practice of syphilization, leading to discussions on medical ethics. The chapter also highlights the transition to germ theory in the late 19th century, detailing key discoveries that changed the understanding of infectious diseases.
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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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