Jonas S. Friedenwald, man of science

Abstract

Jonas S. Friedenwald, a quiet and modest person, was one of the most distinguished research scientists of his era. As a brilliant mathematician, physicist and chemist he applied these basic disciplines to his research studies in ophthalmology. His contributions encompassed the entire field of ophthalmic investigation ranging from his classic textbook on ophthalmic pathology to the development of the Friedenwald ophthalmoscope. His pioneer studies on the pathogenesis of glaucoma, the standardization of tonometers, enzyme chemistry, corneal wound healing, and diseases of the retina laid the groundwork for future generations of investigators.