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Augusta Déjerine-Klumpke
Augusta and Jacqueline Dejerine-Klumpke.jpg
Augusta and Jacqueline Déjerine-Klumpke
Born 15 October 1859
San Francisco, California
Died 5 November 1927 (aged 68)
Paris, France
Nationality United States
Scientific career
Fields neuroanatomy
Influences Joseph Jules Dejerine
Jules and Augusta Dejerine
Jules and Augusta Dejerine

Augusta Déjerine-Klumpke (born October 15, 1859 – died November 5, 1927) was an amazing medical doctor. She was born in the United States but became famous for her work in France. She studied the brain and nerves, a field called neuroanatomy.

Augusta made history as the first female intern in a Paris hospital. This was a big deal because, at that time, it was very hard for women to become doctors.

Early Life and Medical Journey

Augusta Klumpke's family really supported her dream of becoming a doctor. They even moved to Paris from San Francisco. This move helped Augusta and her sisters, Anna Elizabeth Klumpke, Julia Klumpke, and Dorothea Klumpke, follow their own paths.

Facing Challenges

Being a woman in medicine was tough back then. Augusta faced many people who didn't think women should be doctors. But she didn't give up! She worked hard in her studies. She even worked in special labs at the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle.

Becoming a Pioneer

Augusta became known for her great medical skills. She could also speak English and German, which was very helpful. Because of her talent, she and Blanche Edwards-Pilliet became the first women "externs" in Paris hospitals. An extern is like a medical student who works outside the hospital but still helps with patient care.

Discoveries and Contributions

During her time as a student, Augusta described a special injury. Today, we call it Klumpke paralysis. This injury affects the nerves that control arm movement.

Working with Dr. Vulpian

Augusta worked with Alfred Vulpian, who was the dean of her medical school. It's interesting because he had first been against her joining medical school. He thought she was too young and, well, a woman. But Augusta proved him wrong with her hard work!

Sharing Knowledge

Augusta Déjerine-Klumpke wrote or helped write 56 articles about her medical findings. She also wrote a huge two-volume book. It was about the anatomy of nerve centers. She wrote this important book with her husband, Joseph Jules Dejerine.

Joining Scientific Groups

Augusta was part of many important science groups. She was the first woman ever chosen to join the Société de Biologie. She was also a member of the Société de Neurologie de Paris. She received special awards for her discoveries, like the Officier de la Légion d'honneur.

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