[On atrophy. A doctoral dissertation by Elias Til-landz in 1670]

Elias Til-landz is known as the most industrious professor of medicine at the Academy of Turku (Abo) during the 17th century. This article describes his student years in Uppsala and Leiden, and surveys the contents of his hitherto unanalysed doctoral thesis De Athrophia as evidence of his intellectual connections. Til-landz (originally called Tillander) studied philosophy at the Academy of Turku and medicine in Uppsala. Medicine attracted only a handful of students at Turku, most probably because of the low status of the occupation and the scarce opportunities for career. At the University of Uppsala - the biggest university of 17th-century Sweden - the professors of medicine were prominent men in their field and well versed in the new philosophical currents as well. It was neverless usual for Swedish medical students in the 17th century to complete their studies abroad, especially at the famous University of Leiden. It is probable that Til-landz had written his doctoral thesis himself. He defended it in Leiden on 11th March 1670 under the formal guidance of J.F. Gronovius, who was professor of the Greek language and history. In his thesis Til-landz shows intimate knowledge of the new medical authorities of the age, such as Walter Charleton, Francis Glisson, Santorio Santorio, etc. His approach to physiology follows Franciscus De le Boe Sylvius's iatrochemical theories. In Til-landz's view atrophy can affect either the whole body (general atrophy) or some parts only (special atrophy). It is caused by the lack or poor quality of blood and is mostly cured by diet, emesis or bathing.