Complete Record - Heirs of Hippocrates No. 1256

XAVIER BICHAT (1771-1802) Traité des membranes en général et de diverses membranes en particulier. Chez Richard, Caille et Ravier [1800] [8] 326 pp. 19.9 cm.

Bichat deserves the term "one of the fathers of histology." Without benefit of the microscope, this French anatomist and physiologist established a system of normal and pathological structure based on the individual tissues rather than on organs as the important biological units. This notable contribution to the understanding of tissues is considered by many to be Bichat's best work. His classification and description of the various kinds of membranes led to a better understanding of the nature of disease.

Cited references: Garrison-Morton 537; Waller 1032 (1802 ed.); Wellcome II, p. 164

Gift of John Martin, M.D.