H. Houston Merritt

File:Merritt houston.jpg

H. Houston Merritt (1902–1979) was a prominent American neurologist and a key figure in the development of modern neurology. He is best known for his contributions to the understanding and treatment of epilepsy and other neurological disorders.

Early Life and Education

Hiram Houston Merritt Jr. was born on January 12, 1902, in Wilson, North Carolina. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and went on to earn his medical degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 1926.

Career

Merritt began his career at the Boston City Hospital, where he worked under the mentorship of renowned neurologist Stanley Cobb. In 1935, he joined the faculty of the Harvard Medical School and later became the Chief of Neurology at the New York Neurological Institute at Columbia University in 1948.

Contributions to Neurology

Merritt made significant contributions to the field of neurology, particularly in the study and treatment of epilepsy. He co-authored the influential textbook Merritt's Neurology, which remains a key reference in the field. His research led to the development of phenytoin, one of the first effective anticonvulsant drugs, which revolutionized the treatment of epilepsy.

Leadership and Legacy

Merritt served as the President of the American Academy of Neurology and was a founding member of the American Epilepsy Society. He was also instrumental in the establishment of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).

Personal Life

Merritt was married to Margaret Merritt and had three children. He passed away on January 9, 1979, in New York City.

See Also

• Neurology
• Epilepsy
• Phenytoin
• American Academy of Neurology
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

External Links

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