Early contribution of Alexandria medical school to the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the nervous system

Abstract

Alexandria's famous medical school was established about 300 BC. It was the seat of learning for many Greco-Roman physicians. The physiologist Erasistratus, the anatomist Herophilus - named the Father of Anatomy were outstanding pioneers. Their work and discoveries of the nervous system, its structure and function, are described. In the 2nd century AD they were succeeded by Rufus of Ephesus - the medical link between Hippocrates and Galen, - and Aretaeus a leading anatomist and physician in this period.

Keywords: Alexandria; Anatomy; Aretaeus; Dissection; Erasistratus; Herophilus; Physiology; Rufus of Ephesus.