Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar and his apoplexy

Abstract

Judge Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar (1825-1893) became one of JF Kennedy’s favourite political heroes. Lamar suffered from his first stroke in the age of 36. Searching his writings and historical material reveal that Lamar suffered also from depression, rheumatic heart disease and renal problems. Differential diagnosis of his disabilities is given together with descriptions of his ailments.

”Leave not a rack behind. We are such stuff As dreams are made on, and our little life Is rounded with a sleep. Sir, I am vexed. Bear with my weakness; my old brain is troubled. Be not disturbed with my infirmity. If you be pleased, retire into my cell And there repose. A turn or two I'll walk To still my beating mind..."

[W. Shakespeare, The Tempest , Act 4, Scene 1]