When History Meets Neurology: Neurological Diseases of Famous People

Neuroscientist. 2019 Oct;25(5):388-393. doi: 10.1177/1073858419835542. Epub 2019 Mar 15.

Abstract

This retrospective review focuses on some illustrious personalities of history, who have suffered from neurological illnesses. Neurological diseases represent about 10% of all illnesses, and therefore do not spare anyone, much less, famous people. In this review, we discuss the neurological disorders that have struck some celebrities throughout history. We briefly examine the lives of emperors, writers, poets, and musicians that have suffered from neurological diseases such as epilepsy, stroke, tumors, and other illnesses, and which caused death or disability. From a historical point of view, recollection of the lives of famous people afflicted by neurological disorders holds important lessons for future generations.

Keywords: famous people; neurological diseases; neurology.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Famous Persons*
  • History, 18th Century
  • History, 19th Century
  • History, 20th Century
  • History, Ancient
  • Humans
  • Nervous System Diseases / history*
  • Neurology / history*