Friedrich Zenker (1825—1898). On the occasion of the 200th anniversary of his birth

Friedrich Albert von Zenker (1825—1898) was an outstanding German pathologist and histologist who left an indelible mark on the history of medicine in the 19th century. His scientific research was distinguished by innovation and a deep understanding of the relationship between the structure of tissues and the development of diseases. Zenker became famous for his studies of trichinellosis. He was the first to describe the muscle stage of trichinellosis in humans, determining the role of pork in the spread of infection. His work became the basis for developing measures of prevention and control of this dangerous disease, which made a significant contribution to public health. In addition, Zenker made a significant contribution to the study of other pathological processes. He investigated degenerative changes in the muscles (his name named a special type of muscle tissue dystrophy), described specific changes in the lungs with pneumoconiosis, also described fat embolism as a cause of death after a severe injury, as well as a state that in modern medicine is called the disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC-syndrome). Zenker also submitted studies on acute yellow liver atrophy and cerebral infections. In collaboration with G.V. Zimssen Zenker published the book «Krankheiten des Oesophagus» (1877), in which he described in detail the special type of diverticulum of the esophagus — «Pulsating hypopharyngeal».