St John's history is published

A book telling the story of the world-renowned St John’s Institute of Dermatology at Guy’s and St Thomas’ has been published to mark its 150^th anniversary.

SKIN, a history documents the first 150 years of St John’s, from its humble beginnings in two rooms in Soho to the development of today’s Institute which has six specialist departments providing cutting edge treatments and research.

Written by esteemed health journalist Jeremy Laurance, the book paves the way to even greater successes over the next 150 years as St John’s leads the way at the forefront of modern, multidisciplinary medical care.

Jeremy Laurance says: "John Milton, founder of St John's, recognised what few doctors did - that patients with skin disease suffered twice over, not only from the condition but also from the revulsion it typically inspired in others.

“Racked by scandal and rocked by resignations, his hospital almost foundered in its early years. But he persisted, the flow of patients increased and its reputation grew until it became the Institute it is today.

“It has been a real pleasure delving into St John's history, interviewing its doctors, nurses and patients, and learning about the cutting edge research and state-of-the art treatments it delivers, which show it is well set for the next 150 years."

Sean Whittaker, Professor of Cutaneous Oncology at St John’s Institute of Dermatology, says: “We are delighted to see the rich history of the Institute brought to life in SKIN, a history.

“The book takes the reader on a journey through history, and leaves them in anticipation of what we confidently believe will be the vastly improved dermatologic care of the future.

“St John’s is today at the forefront of modern, multidisciplinary medical care, poised to exploit breakthroughs in clinical genetics, immunology and personalised medicine.”

The production of SKIN, a history was made possible through the support of Guy's and St Thomas' Charity.