A laboratory accident involving a cadaver redirected the career path of Ernst von Fleischl-Marxow, forcing a transition from anatomical pathology to the emerging field of neurophysiology. This shift allowed him to leverage his expertise in physical sciences to develop tools that measured the faint electrical signals generated by nerve endings and the cerebral cortex.
Academic and Research Foundation
Born in Vienna in 1846, Fleischl-Marxow studied at the University of Vienna, where he initially served as a research assistant to Ernst Wilhelm von Brücke and Carl von Rokitansky. Following the infection and subsequent amputation of his thumb during dissection work, he redirected his focus toward physiology. He completed additional training at the University of Leipzig under Carl Ludwig before receiving his medical degree in 1874. His early work focused on electrophysiology, inspired by the research of Emil du Bois-Reymond regarding axon action potentials.
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Fleischl-Marxow utilized his proficiency in physics to create specialized equipment capable of detecting low-voltage biological electrical activity. He developed the reonome to control stimulus intensity and modified Lippmann’s capillary electrometer for bioelectrical measurements. By 1876, his research shifted to the global electrical activity within cerebral hemispheres. He successfully demonstrated that sensory stimulation produced measurable potential swings on the surface of the cortex, though he delayed the formal publication of these findings until 1883.
Optical Contributions and Recognition
Appointed as a full professor at the University of Vienna in 1880, he was also named a correspondent member of the Austrian Academy of Sciences and received the Order of Franz Joseph. His scientific output extended into physiological optics, where he investigated retinal nerve distribution and corneal characteristics. He produced several diagnostic instruments, most notably the hematometer, which became a standard tool for calculating hemoglobin levels in clinical settings.
Chronic Pain and Addiction
The remainder of his life was marked by persistent agony resulting from his previous injury. Seeking relief, he turned to morphine. His intimate friend Sigmund Freud, believing cocaine could serve as a successful treatment for opiate dependency, recommended the substance to him. This intervention resulted in a dual addiction that exacerbated his deteriorating condition. He died in Vienna in 1891 at the age of 45 and was interred at the Old Jewish Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1846, Vienna
- Died: 1891, Vienna
- Education: University of Vienna
- Awards: Order of Franz Joseph
- Key Invention: Hematometer
- Citizenship: Austrian Empire; Cisleithania
Questions readers ask
What scientific instruments did he invent?
He is credited with the invention of the spectropolarimeter, the hematometer, and the reonome.
Why did he leave pathology for physiology?
An infection resulting from an injury sustained while dissecting a cadaver necessitated the amputation of his thumb, making traditional surgery and pathology work impractical.
Achievements
- Order of Franz Joseph
- Held posts at University of Vienna
