Hypoxia and altitude sickness became subjects of rigorous scientific inquiry through the field research of French physician Denis Jourdanet. Between his birth in Juillan in 1815 and his death in Paris in 1892, he utilized his wealth to conduct extensive investigations into human physiology within the mountainous regions of mid-nineteenth-century Mexico.
Studies in Mountain Physiology
During his travels in Mexico, Jourdanet observed the physical responses of climbers to elevated terrain. He identified a physiological connection between reduced atmospheric oxygen pressure and the increase of erythrocyte counts in human blood. He defined this state as barometric anoxemia, establishing a foundational link between environmental conditions and internal biological changes.
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Jourdanet maintained a professional association with the physiologist Paul Bert, who lived from 1833 to 1886. To support Bert's laboratory research into conditions caused by low oxygen pressure, Jourdanet provided the necessary specialized equipment, including a decompression chamber, which allowed for controlled study of physiological stress.
Medical Publications
Throughout his career, Jourdanet authored several works analyzing the impact of altitude and climate on health. His bibliography includes De Mexique au point de vue de son influence sur la vie de l'homme and Les altitudes de l'Amerique tropicale comparees au niveau des mers au point de vue de la constitution medicale, both published in 1861. He followed these with Le Mexique et l'Amerique tropicale; climats, hygiene et maladies in 1864 and his 1875 study, Influence de la pression de l'air sur la vie de l'homme. Climats d'altitude et climats de montagne.
Fast facts
- Born: 1815, Juillan
- Died: 1892, Paris
- Nationality: French
- Primary Field: Physiology and Surgery
- Key Area of Study: Barometric anoxemia
Questions readers ask
What medical term did Denis Jourdanet use for altitude sickness?
He referred to the condition as barometric anoxemia.
Who did Denis Jourdanet assist with laboratory equipment?
He provided equipment, such as a decompression chamber, to physiologist Paul Bert.
