Victor Eisenmenger (1864–1932): The man behind the syndrome

Although much has been written about the cardiovascular abnormalities present in Eisenmenger’s syndrome, little has been recorded previously in the medical literature about Victor Eisenmenger, the Austrian doctor whose name is attached eponymously to this disorder. Archival material together with information provided by his descendants and relatives has been gathered to make available further details of his life, family, schooling, medical training and accomplishments. An examination of Eisenmenger’s book about his observations and experiences while serving from 1895 to 1914 as personal physician to Archduke Francis Ferdinand, the heir presumptive to the Austro-Hungarian throne, also sheds light on Eisenmenger’s personality, abilities and interests.