Yu Guangyuan (1899–1991), male, was a native of Yantai City, Shandong Province. He was a renowned dermatology and venereology expert in China, holding the title of first-class professor, and was one of the principal founders of the dermatology and venereology discipline in China. He graduated from Fengtian Medical College in 1921 and obtained his medical doctorate from the University of Edinburgh, UK, in 1925. Throughout his career, he taught at several prestigious institutions, including Fengtian Medical College, the National Central University Medical School, the United Hospital of Chengdu’s Three Universities, Lanzhou University Medical School, Tongji University Medical School, the Sino-American Hospital, the Second Military Medical University in Shanghai, and Tongji Medical University. He served as a deputy to the Third National People’s Congress, a member of the Fifth and Sixth National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), a member of the Fourth Hubei Provincial Committee of the CPPCC, the chairman of the Shanghai Dermatology Society, the vice-chairman of the Chinese Dermatology Society, a council member of the Hubei Branch of the Chinese Medical Association, the chairman of the Hubei and Wuhan Dermatology Societies, and the deputy editor-in-chief of the Chinese Journal of Dermatology, among other significant positions.

　　First Impression

　　“He is like a lighthouse, weathered by storms yet unshakable, guiding patients with skin diseases through the vast ocean of specialized knowledge to the shores of healing. His life has never ceased to race against time. He teaches by example, like the blazing summer sun, igniting boundless passion. His achievements are like the bountiful fruits of autumn, heavily laden with the golden hues of an era. Yu Guangyuan, a titan in Chinese dermatology, a first-class professor, and one of the principal founders of dermatology in China. The journey of his life unfolds like an epic, narrating the perseverance and dedication of a dermatology expert. With a lifetime of persistence and hard work, he has shaped the stars of tomorrow, inspiring every dreamer who gazes upon the starry sky.”

　　01 Practicing Medicine to Save the Nation

　　Yu Guangyuan was born on November 18, 1898, in the picturesque coastal city of Yantai, Shandong. His father, an ordinary clerk, provided a warm and nurturing family environment, making his childhood simple yet happy. Despite modest material conditions, his father never neglected his son’s education. A bright and talented youth, Yu Guangyuan excelled academically from an early age, laying the foundation for his future achievements. As the 20th century dawned in the East, the world was in a state of social upheaval and cultural collision. Although his family was not wealthy, Yu Guangyuan was deeply encouraged by his loved ones and enrolled at Fengtian Medical University in 1921. At this prestigious institution, which is now known as Liaoning Medical University, he graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor of Medicine degree. There, he not only deepened his medical knowledge but also began his teaching career due to his outstanding performance, marking the start of his journey in medical practice. However, Yu Guangyuan’s thirst for knowledge did not stop there.

　　In 1923, his profound insights into his field earned him recognition in academia and an opportunity to study abroad in the United Kingdom. He pursued further studies at the world-renowned University of Edinburgh Medical School, specializing in pharmacology while also exploring and researching other clinical fields, particularly dermatology and venereology. At the time, he focused on studying syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease that severely affected people’s lives. Yu Guangyuan not only excelled in pharmacology but also broadened his academic horizons, ultimately earning dual doctoral degrees—a remarkable achievement at the time. During his studies in the UK, Yu Guangyuan had the privilege of being mentored by world-famous pharmacologists, Professors Cushny and Ibbotson. Under the influence of these academic giants, he delved into profound pharmacological research, achieving significant results. His important publications, such as “Pharmacological Studies on Digitalis and Its Analogues” and “Research on Amyl Nitrite,” made substantial contributions to the field of pharmacology. He continued this tradition by translating several classic pharmacological works, including “Materia Medica and Therapeutics” by B. and D. and “Experimental Pharmacology” by A. and C., greatly advancing the development and popularization of Western medicine in China. In 1925, Yu Guangyuan returned to China with honors, bringing his rich knowledge and passion for medicine back to Fengtian Medical University, where he continued his teaching and research in pharmacology. However, his path was not limited to academia. At the time, China was undergoing intense social upheaval and national crisis. In 1932, to defend national dignity and interests, Yu Guangyuan joined the anti-Japanese resistance movement. He became a member of the “Northeast People’s Anti-Japanese Salvation Association” and, under the leadership of Liu Tonglun in the “Shenyang Patriotic Delegation,” risked his life to provide crucial evidence of Japanese war crimes to the “Lytton Commission of the League of Nations.” These materials were later widely cited as evidence in the post-World War II trials of Japanese war criminals. Yu Guangyuan’s courageous actions had a significant impact both domestically and internationally, reflecting his conscience and patriotic fervor as a Chinese intellectual. In 1935, this fearless scholar was arrested by the Japanese invaders and endured severe torture in prison. After several months, he was released on bail and left Shenyang, but his patriotic spirit never waned.

　　In 1937, driven by his pursuit of academic progress and the nation’s future, he was appointed as a pharmacology professor at the National Central University Medical College in Nanjing, continuing his teaching and research. During the Anti-Japanese War and beyond, he shifted his primary focus to dermatology and venereology, serving as the head of the dermatology and pharmacology departments at the National Central, West China, and Qilu University Medical Colleges, continuing his contributions to the medical field and his steadfast pursuit of national rejuvenation. In the 1930s, the rampant spread of sexually transmitted diseases, leprosy, and other skin conditions in mainland China was a heavy burden for ordinary people. However, at the time, professional expertise and knowledge in dermatology were severely lacking. Most doctors in this field were foreigners, and Chinese doctors showed little interest, leaving patients without timely and effective treatment. Driven by his deep concern for the nation and its people, Yu Guangyuan shifted his focus to the research, teaching, and clinical practice of dermatology. In fact, before leaving Shenyang, he had already begun his journey in dermatology by establishing a dermatology teaching and research department, dedicated to elevating the knowledge and clinical treatment capabilities in the field. His actions brought warmth and hope to this neglected but crucial area. As Yu Guangyuan shifted his focus, his work extended from the Northeast to Shanghai, then the medical center of China. There, he founded the Shanghai Dermatology Society and served as its first chairman. The establishment of this organization marked a significant step in the systematic study of dermatology in China and directly influenced the future development of the field. As vice-chairman, he was determined to elevate Chinese dermatology to the international stage, improve the professional level of domestic medical personnel in the field, and provide more specialized dermatological treatment and prevention services for the Chinese people. In 1946, as Yu Guangyuan continued to expand his influence in dermatology, he self-funded and recruited faculty to establish the Lanzhou Medical College, serving as its dean. This initiative not only filled the gap in higher medical education in western China but also marked a milestone in the development of dermatology and venereology in the country.

　　In 1947, Yu Guangyuan returned to the National Central University Medical College in Nanjing, serving as a professor and head of the dermatology and pharmacology departments. His dual roles allowed him to contribute his wisdom and strength to both fields. In 1948, Yu Guangyuan became the head of the dermatology and venereology teaching and research department at Tongji University Medical College. There, he continued to lead and elevate the research standards in the field. In the same year, he also served as the head of the dermatology teaching and research department at the National Defense Medical College (now the Second Military Medical University). These dual appointments further expanded his influence. Additionally, he founded the Shanghai Dermatology Society, solidifying his leadership in the field of dermatology in China and promoting academic exchange and scientific research, greatly advancing the progress and development of dermatology in the country and laying a solid foundation for the future of dermatology in New China.

　　

　　

　　02 Pioneer of Dermatology in New China

　　At the dawn of the People’s Republic of China, the mission shouldered by Yu Guangyuan did not diminish with the end of the war. On the contrary, his focus shifted to the reconstruction of the nation’s health services and the well-being of its people. After the founding of New China, Yu Guangyuan continued to make significant contributions to the medical community, particularly in the treatment and research of skin diseases such as leprosy, where he achieved remarkable success. In the 1950s, during the initial stages of socialist construction, China’s healthcare system faced the dual tasks of rebuilding and development. In this context, Yu Guangyuan proposed and implemented an appointment system to better manage and treat leprosy patients, an innovative approach at the time. This initiative not only improved outpatient efficiency but also reflected his respect and humanistic care for patients. He worked tirelessly to eliminate social discrimination and fear against leprosy patients, advocating for a more equal and professional attitude toward each individual. Simultaneously, Yu Guangyuan actively integrated clinical work with teaching. He conducted meticulous research on Mycobacterium leprae and the lepromin test, and meticulously collected and organized relevant clinical data. These valuable materials and experiences laid a solid foundation for future leprosy prevention and treatment efforts.

　　In 1951, responding to the nation’s call, Shanghai Tongji University Medical College merged with Wuhan University Medical College to form Central South Tongji Medical College, where Yu Guangyuan became a leading expert in dermatology. Under limited resources, he established 10 specialized beds for treating skin disease patients and conducting related medical work. In 1955, with the establishment of Central South Wuhan Medical College, the Dermatology and Venereology Teaching and Research Department was founded, with Yu Guangyuan as its director. His team expanded further with the addition of physicians such as Huang Zhongzhang, Huang Deshan, and Zhu Zhaoru, providing strong support for the development of dermatology.

　　To better serve patients and cultivate professional talent, he opened a dermatology ward on July 25 of the same year, initially increasing the number of beds to 28. This provided more space for clinical diagnosis and treatment, offering an excellent platform for medical students and dermatology researchers to practice and conduct research. Through the efforts of Yu Guangyuan and his team, the Dermatology and Venereology Teaching and Research Department at Central South Tongji Medical College gradually grew into a nationally renowned center for dermatology research and treatment, nurturing a large number of dermatologists and scholars. At the time, Yu Guangyuan’s work was not limited to clinical practice and teaching. He also focused on dermatology prevention, tirelessly conducting lectures and health education activities across the country to popularize knowledge about skin diseases, especially the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases and leprosy. His efforts helped change public fear and discrimination toward these diseases and improved the overall health level of the nation.

　　

　　03 Chinese Dermatologist Gains International Attention for “Solar Dermatitis”

　　Yu Guangyuan’s contributions not only advanced the development of dermatology in China but also earned respect and recognition for Chinese dermatology on the international stage. In the 1950s, a time when international exchanges were infrequent, achieving global recognition for Chinese scientific research required exceptional academic rigor and unwavering dedication, qualities that Yu Guangyuan embodied as a medical scientist. His research on solar dermatitis marked a turning point in his international reputation. His persistent long-term clinical observations of the disease set a model for the medical community. Contrary to the prevailing understanding at the time, Yu Guangyuan discovered that solar dermatitis was not caused by atriplex poisoning, as was widely believed. He overturned this misconception and proposed a new perspective that sunlight was the primary cause of the skin inflammation.

　　This groundbreaking achievement was widely recognized at the 11th International Congress of Dermatology in 1957, marking a significant milestone for Chinese researchers in the international dermatology field. This internal and external recognition not only elevated the academic reputation of Chinese dermatology but also greatly inspired trust and expectations in Chinese scientists both domestically and internationally. Yu Guangyuan’s unique discovery of solar dermatitis became one of the early achievements in the history of New China’s medical science, showcasing the potential and future of Chinese medicine’s integration with the world. Domestically, Yu Guangyuan remained true to his初心, continuing to deepen his efforts in medical education and research. He led the establishment of various dermatology laboratories, such as those for skin histopathology, mycology, and skin biochemistry, which became vital bases for dermatological research in China.

　　His ongoing research and innovation in these fields not only enriched the understanding of these diseases both in China and abroad but also laid a solid foundation for future treatments. Yu Guangyuan traveled across China, serving multiple dermatology academic organizations. Through his and his colleagues’ efforts, they promoted the scientific research level and international exchanges in the field of dermatology in China, ensuring that Chinese dermatology occupied its rightful place on the international stage. His achievements and contributions are an indelible part of the history of modern dermatology in China and serve as a model and source of pride for all those working on the front lines of medicine.

　　

　　04 Rooted in the People, Guarding Their Well-being

　　Yu Guangyuan’s story illustrates how a medical expert closely linked scientific research with the health of the people. His work was consistently guided by a core principle: “Everything starts from the patient.” His research on riboflavin deficiency and yaws was conducted with this principle in mind.

　　In the early years of the People’s Republic of China, malnutrition was a common social issue, with many civilians and soldiers suffering from the disease due to prolonged warfare and difficult living conditions. Riboflavin, a form of vitamin B2, is essential for health, and its deficiency can lead to a range of symptoms including mouth ulcers, sore throat, dry and inflamed skin, dry eyes, allergic reactions, anemia, edema, and inflammation of the skin and lips. It can also cause fatigue, headaches, vision problems, neurological issues, and digestive problems. Severe and prolonged deficiency can lead to serious health problems. Yu Guangyuan immersed himself among the patients, conducting firsthand investigations and using his expertise to scientifically analyze the disease, identify its causes, and develop effective prevention and treatment methods, thereby helping countless patients. In his research on yaws, he demonstrated the same seriousness and rigor. Yaws is an infectious disease caused by the Treponema pallidum bacterium, transmitted through broken skin, and is characterized by painful and itchy skin rashes.

　　As the disease progresses, it can lead to satellite-like skin ulcerations, fever, and limb pain. At the time, yaws was prevalent in the northern Jiangsu region, directly threatening the production and life of the rural population. Upon learning of this situation, Yu Guangyuan led his team into the epidemic area, conducting detailed epidemiological surveys and clinical research. Their studies not only clarified the epidemic patterns and pathological characteristics of yaws but also proposed effective prevention and control measures, making a significant contribution to the control and eventual eradication of yaws in China.

　　Yu Guangyuan’s achievements are not only a testament to his personal merits but also vividly reflect his benevolence and skill as a physician, as well as his commitment to combining scientific research with the health needs of the people. These moving cases set an exemplary model for future generations, demonstrating that scientific research should serve society and address practical problems.

　　

　　05 Writing Books and Establishing Schools, Combining Medicine with Education

　　Yu Guangyuan’s works, such as “Dermatology and Venereology,” “Leprology,” and “Occupational and Industrial Diseases,” encapsulate his years of scientific research and clinical experience, offering invaluable academic resources for future doctors and researchers, and perpetuating his unwavering focus on the health of the people. It was due to the selfless dedication of Yu Guangyuan and his contemporaries that the medical field in New China achieved remarkable progress and development in a short period.

　　As a scientist and educator with profound knowledge, he was deeply aware of the power of knowledge and the importance of its dissemination. His lifelong pursuit was not only his own scientific achievements but also the cultivation of outstanding talents for the scientific community. At the age of 80, Yu Guangyuan was still engaged in translation work, committed to bringing advanced medical knowledge from abroad to his domestic colleagues, thereby elevating the level of medical practice. The returns on his educational investments, based on his foundational work, were evident in the students he mentored, such as Cui Ousheng, Xu Tonghua, Huang Shengxiang, and Zhang Yiyuan, who have since grown into pivotal figures in the field of dermatology in China, continuing Yu Guangyuan’s legacy. At 85, Yu Guangyuan led the translation of the 7th edition of “Clinical Dermatology,” setting an example of professionalism and dedication for the younger generation. In his proofreading work, he remained meticulous.

　　At 87, Yu Guangyuan did not enjoy the leisure of retirement but continued to diligently learn and summarize his experiences, selflessly passing on this precious knowledge to the younger generation, always maintaining a curiosity and desire for new knowledge. On the early morning of February 9, 1991, Yu Guangyuan passed away at the age of 92. His life and contributions have left an immeasurable wealth for the field of dermatology in China; his knowledge and lofty academic spirit will forever be remembered, inspiring future generations to strive tirelessly and contribute to the continued prosperity and development of dermatology in China. His scholarly spirit, academic attitude, and boundless care and patience for his students are a true reflection of his stature as a great medical figure.

　　

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