[Larrey and Egyptian ophthalmia].
During the napoleonic expedition to Egypt (1798-1801), a new ophthalmic disease, the "egyptian ophthalmia", was discovered by the french physicians. We analysed a contemporary study published by the surgeon Jean-Dominique Larrey. The accuracy of the clinical description enables us to suggest hypotheses upon the origin if the egyptian ophthalmia: Weeks' conjunctivitis, gonorrheal conjunctivitis, trachoma. Treatments are also reviewed. Larrey is to be seen as a symbol of the transition from the old medical vision to modern clinical medicine.
D004534:Egypt; D009877:Endophthalmitis / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000266:history* / Q000628:therapy; D005602:France; D049671:History, 18th Century; D049672:History, 19th Century; D006801:Humans
Larrey et l'ophtalmie d'Egypte.