Laennec invents the stethoscope.

A general anaesthetic (ether) used for the first time during surgery.

Lister conducts the first operation using antiseptic to protect against infection.

Helmholtz invents the opthalmoscope.

The work of Jenner, Pasteur and Kock leads to a new understanding of infectious diseases and the development of vaccines.

Metchnikoff, Roux and Calmette describe the role of macrophages and neutrophils in cellular immunity.

Roentgen discovers x-rays.

Radium is discovered by Pierre and Marie Curie.

Aspirin marketed for relief of pain and fever by Fabenfabriken Bayer.