The medicinal leech: a page from the annelids of internal medicine
Historical review published in Annals of Internal Medicine (1988)
Abstract
Leeches have been used in health care since ancient times by physician and layman alike. As just one of several methods of bloodletting, the leech became the focus of a science that included such subjects as indications, modes of attachment, complications, and relative contraindications. The popularity of leeching has varied immensely over the years. In the 19th century, this annelid saw its numbers decimated because of protean medicinal indications. The leech lost its hold on the practice of medicine in the early 20th century. Recently, the use of leeches has resurged in both the lay and the scientific communities.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Резюме
Historical review of medicinal leech use covering ancient times through the 19th-century European peak (1830-1850) decline and modern resurgence in microsurgery.
Почему это важно для гирудотерапии
This historical article surveys the medicinal leech's role in health care from antiquity through the 20th century, framing it within the broader practice of bloodletting that encompassed indications, modes of attachment, complications, and relative contraindications. It traces the dramatic fluctuation in leeching's popularity—especially the 19th-century surge in demand that decimated leech populations—and notes a recent resurgence in both lay and scientific interest. For ASH, this provides cultural and historical context for the leech's enduring place in medicine. Caveat: this is a historical/narrative article with no original scientific data, clinical findings, or secretome characterization.
Цитирование
The medicinal leech: a page from the annelids of internal medicine.
Adams SL · Annals of internal medicine, 1988
Связанный клинический контекст
Узнайте, как это исследование связано с клинической практикой
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