L'oculistica di Antonio Scarpa e due secoli di storia.

Abstract

Scarpa's name has always been associated with anatomy and surgery. Few know, however, that the "surgeon of Pavia," as Scarpa was called, like his teacher, Morgagni, was much interested in ophthalmology and that in 1801 he published his first book, "The Principal Diseases of the Eye." His clear style, accurate observation, clinical judgment and well balanced application of the principles of pathology known in his day made him a leader at the beginning of the past century. This masterly work ran into many editions and was translated into German, Dutch, Spanish and English. It became a popular textbook on ophthalmology, in spite of the fact that many books on the subject in various languages were already in existence. About the middle of the past century the book was supplanted by more up-to-date and extensive treatises, and it was almost forgotten. Professor Ovio, of the University of Rome, has done a