Louis-Anne-Jean Brocq

French dermatologist

Louis-Anne-Jean Brocq

Louis-Anne-Jean Brocq (1 February 1856 – 18 December 1928) was a prominent French dermatologist known for his contributions to the field of dermatology, particularly in the study and classification of skin diseases. His work laid the foundation for modern dermatological practices and he is remembered for his detailed descriptions of various skin conditions.

Early Life and Education

Louis Brocq was born in Laroque-Timbaut, a commune in the Lot-et-Garonne department in southwestern France. He pursued his medical studies in Paris, where he developed a keen interest in dermatology. Brocq was a student of the renowned dermatologist Jean Alfred Fournier, which greatly influenced his career path.

Career

Brocq began his medical career at the Hôpital Saint-Louis, a leading center for dermatological research and treatment in Paris. He quickly gained recognition for his meticulous research and clinical skills. In 1882, he became a member of the Société Française de Dermatologie et de Syphiligraphie, where he collaborated with other leading dermatologists of his time.

Contributions to Dermatology

Brocq is best known for his work on several skin conditions, including:

• Lichen planus: Brocq provided detailed descriptions of this chronic inflammatory condition, which is characterized by itchy, flat-topped, purple papules on the skin.
• Erythroderma: He was one of the first to describe this severe and potentially life-threatening condition, which involves widespread redness and scaling of the skin.
• Pityriasis rubra pilaris: Brocq's work on this rare skin disorder helped in distinguishing it from other similar conditions.

Brocq's Sign

Brocq is also associated with "Brocq's sign," a clinical sign used in the diagnosis of certain skin diseases. This sign involves the appearance of a particular pattern or reaction on the skin when subjected to specific stimuli.

Later Life and Legacy

Brocq continued to work at the Hôpital Saint-Louis until his retirement. He was a prolific writer and contributed numerous articles to medical journals, sharing his findings and advancing the field of dermatology. His work remains influential, and he is remembered as a pioneer in dermatological research.

Louis Brocq passed away in 1928, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and dedication to the study of skin diseases.

Related Pages

• Dermatology
• Lichen planus
• Erythroderma
• Pityriasis rubra pilaris