BACKGROUND

The most important component of the history of medicine is the systematic knowledge and critical comprehension of the scientists’ biographies in the aspect of past, present and future generations. The role of the individual in the initiation, formation and development of both separate medical specialties and practical medical schools is undeniable. The study of issues of the history of medicine through the prism of work of the scientists and organizers of practical health care allows to fill existing gaps and restore the historical connections, to come closer to understanding the complete picture of medical science and practice development.

OBJECTIVE

To study the biography of the well-known scientist dermatovenerologist, head of the department of Smolensk State Medical Institute (1925–1930) Zinoviy Naumovich Grzhebin, to determine his contribution to the formation of Smolensk dermatological school and the development of domestic dermatovenerology.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A comprehensive analysis of publications (scientific articles) and personal archival data, including photo materials about professor of dermatovenerology Z.N. Grzhebin, provided by his grandson I.M. Grzhebin (Sevastopol), with the use of historical-genetic and chronological methods of investigation, was conducted.

RESULTS

The well-known biographical data were supplemented by previously unknown facts from the professional life of Z.N. Grzhebin, which allowed to systematize and determine the significant contribution of the professor to the formation of the Smolensk dermatovenerological school and the role of the physician scientist in the development of domestic dermatovenerology.

CONCLUSION

Professor Z.N. Grzhebin is one of the founders of dermatovenerology in Smolensk State Medical University, author of significant articles and monographs devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of infectious and non-infectious pathologies of skin and mucous membranes.