Moscati, Pietro

Pietro Moscati (Milano, – Milano, January 6th 1824) practiced medicine and taught Anatomy and Clinical medicine in Pavia and Milan.

The Index of anatomical disquisitions publicly held in the theatre of the royal University of Pavia, published in 1768 in Milan, is a testament to Moscati’s teaching activity in Pavia (Anatomy, 1763-1772). The Index leaves space after each chapter to a commentary referencing physiology, pathology and medical practice.

Two concepts voiced in the introduction are worth mentioning: prominence is granted to anatomy studies conducted on cadavers rather than to anatomy as studied on books, and anatomy’s importance is recognized tout-court (for its medical applications and as more of a general and philosophical knowledge of nature).

Between 1772 and 1797, Moscati worked in hospitals and institutes, in close contact with patients, and organized effectively and innovatively the health institutions under his care.