The Extant Works of Aretaeus the Cappadocian, translated by Francis Adams in 1853, is a seminal text in the history of medicine. Aretaeus, a Greek physician from Cappadocia, practiced in Rome and Alexandria during the 2nd century AD. His writings, preserved in Ionic Greek, offer detailed clinical observations on a wide array of diseases, distinguishing him as a pioneer in medical documentation. The treatises encompass eight books divided into four volumes: On the Causes and Symptoms of Acute Diseases, On the Causes and Symptoms of Chronic Diseases, On the Cure of Acute Diseases, and On the Cure of Chronic Diseases. These works remained largely unknown until the mid-16th century, when they were rediscovered and published in Latin.​

Aretaeus’s approach to medicine was characterized by meticulous observation and a focus on clinical accuracy. He provided comprehensive descriptions of various conditions, including asthma, epilepsy, pneumonia, tetanus, uterine cancer, and different forms of insanity. Notably, he was the first to use the term “diabetes” to describe a disease characterized by excessive thirst and urination. His accounts of diseases such as coeliac disease, diphtheria, and heart murmurs were among the earliest known, showcasing his advanced understanding of pathology. Aretaeus’s work also highlighted the importance of distinguishing between nervous diseases and mental disorders, offering insights into conditions like hysteria, headaches, mania, and melancholia.​

In his therapeutic practices, Aretaeus emphasized the use of simple, empirically tested remedies. He advocated for treatments such as bleeding, purging, and the use of narcotics when necessary. His methods were grounded in practical experience rather than theoretical constructs, aligning with the principles of the Pneumatic School of medicine, which posited that health was maintained by “vital air” or pneuma. Aretaeus’s eclectic approach allowed him to integrate various medical philosophies, enabling a more holistic understanding of disease and treatment.​

The rediscovery of Aretaeus’s works in the 16th century marked a significant milestone in the history of medicine. His detailed clinical observations and innovative terminology laid the foundation for future medical research and practice. The Extant Works of Aretaeus the Cappadocian continue to be a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of medical thought and the enduring legacy of one of antiquity’s most astute physicians.