Edward Treacher Collins M.D.
British Opthalmologist
Edward Treacher Collins M.D. 1862 – 1932
Treacher Collins Syndrome is a rare genetic birth defect first observed by a respected opthalmologist in 1895.
Edward Treacher Collins was born in
London, the son of Dr. W. J. Collins and a Miss Treacher. He was schooled
at University College and entered Middlesex Hospital when he was 18.
Influenced by his older brother, Sir William Collins, a distinguished
opthalmologist, he graduated in 1883 and pursued a career in this
speciality.
He spent 48 years at the Royal London Opthalmic Hospital, Moorfields after being interned in 1884. He was married to a New Zealand woman in 1895 and they spent their honeymoon in Persia where Treacher Collins was asked to treat the son of the reigning shah, Prince Izel a’Sultan and was awarded the Lion and Sun decoration in appreciation of his services.
He has published a number of books discussing the anatomy of the eye and was considered to be hard-working, persistent and dogmatic. His publications attracted specialist from Europe and America to work with him at Moorfields.
He did much, both on the national and international scene in development of ophthalmology. He was a leading figure in the organisation of the British Ophthalmological Society as well as the international council of ophthalmology and in 1927 he was elected president. He occupied the office with distinction in the difficult period of post-war conciliation, aided by his charm and flair.
Considered by many to be a dour and serious man, he nevertheless had a good sense of humour and was a noted after dinner speaker.
