Francis Xavier Dercum: a man for all seasons

Francis Xavier Dercum (1856–1931) is known primarily for his prominence in the field of neurology and for his identification of “Adiposis Dolorosa”, known as Dercum’s disease. His brilliance, however, extends well beyond neurology. Born and raised in Philadelphia to parents of American and European descent, Dercum’s natural curiosity oriented his interests toward medicine and philosophy. His scholarship flourished, and much recognition came his way. He died in Benjamin Franklin’s Chair, closing what would be his last session as President of the American Philosophical Society. From anatomy, histology, pathology, and neurology to teaching, writing, and philosophy, Dercum’s life was that of a man for all seasons.