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Therapeutic nihilism?

J Herman1

  • 1Department of Social Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel.

Israel Journal of Medical Sciences
|March 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

The early 20th century saw numerous effective medical treatments, challenging the notion of "therapeutic nihilism." Physicians had diverse remedies for various conditions, indicating a proactive approach to patient care.

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Area of Science:

  • History of Medicine
  • Medical Therapeutics

Background:

  • The period 1908-1935 is often characterized as one of "therapeutic nihilism" in medical history.
  • This view suggests a lack of effective treatments available to physicians during this era.

Observation:

  • A review of historical sources reveals a substantial number of available treatments prior to the widespread use of sulfonamides.
  • These included cures for 15 infectious, 7 deficiency, and 3 endocrine disorders.
  • Rational palliative care was also available for conditions such as congestive heart failure, angina pectoris, asthma, epilepsy, migraine, and Parkinson's disease.

Findings:

  • A minimum of 38 distinct therapeutic interventions were identified, encompassing surgical, pharmacological, nutritional, and physical remedies.
  • Many of these treatments remain relevant and in use even today.

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  • The identified remedies challenge the perception of limited therapeutic options.

    • Implications:

    • The findings suggest that the era of modern medicine did not solely commence with the introduction of sulfonamides.
    • Physicians in the 1920s possessed a considerable arsenal of treatments and demonstrated enthusiasm for patient care.
    • This historical perspective reframes our understanding of early 20th-century medical practice and therapeutic advancements.