The comma tract of Schultze remains a lasting contribution to neuroanatomy, identifying a specific bundle of posterior root fibers in the spinal cord. Friedrich Schultze navigated the transition of German medicine during the late 19th century, establishing himself as a significant figure in neurology and internal medicine while building foundational knowledge regarding disorders of the nervous system.
Academic Foundation
Born in 1848 in Rathenow, Germany, Friedrich Schultze pursued his medical training at Heidelberg University, where he earned his doctorate in 1871. Following his graduation, he served as an assistant to the pathologist Nikolaus Friedreich. His academic progression led him to the Imperial University of Dorpat, now known as the University of Tartu, where he accepted a position as a full professor in 1887. This period established the professional trajectory that defined his subsequent career.
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Schultze moved to the University of Bonn, serving as director of the medical clinic and policlinic. He held this position for the duration of his career, influencing clinical practice and medical research within Germany. In 1891, he collaborated with Wilhelm Heinrich Erb and Adolph Strümpell to establish the journal Deutsche Zeitschrift für Nervenheilkunde, a publication dedicated to the advancement of neurological science. His contributions to the field were recognized in 1928 when he was named an honorary citizen of Bonn.
Contributions to Neuropathology
His research included extensive neuroanatomical and neuropathological investigations. In 1884, he identified a neurological disorder now classified as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. He also provided early descriptions of acroparesthesia. His written output included significant texts such as his 1898 work, Lehrbuch der Nervenkrankheiten, and his 1901 contribution to Hermann Nothnagel's series regarding diseases of the meninges and hydrocephalus. His earlier work involved experiments on tendon reflexes and studies on tetany and peripheral nerve excitability.
Fast facts
- Born: 1848, Rathenow, Germany
- Died: 1934, Bonn, Germany
- Education: Heidelberg University
- Professional affiliations: University of Tartu, University of Bonn
- Membership: German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina
- Awards: Honorary citizen of Bonn (1928)
- Burial site: Poppelsdorf Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What is the comma tract of Schultze?
It is an eponymous bundle of posterior root fibers located between the fasciculus gracilis and the cuneate fasciculus in the spinal cord.
What medical journal did he help establish?
In 1891, he co-founded the Deutsche Zeitschrift für Nervenheilkunde with Wilhelm Heinrich Erb and Adolph Strümpell.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Tartu, Heidelberg University and University of Bonn