Upon graduating in 1875, Korsakov wasted no time immersing himself in clinical practice, joining the staff of the renowned "Preobrazhenski" mental hospital. It was during this formative period that he began to witness firsthand the devastating effects of alcoholism on mental health—a phenomenon that would become the focal point of his research in the years to come. Seeking to deepen his understanding of nervous diseases, Korsakov pursued postgraduate studies under the tutelage of Aleksei Kozhevnikov from 1876 to 1879, laying the groundwork for his groundbreaking investigations into alcoholic psychosis.
Korsakov's seminal work culminated in his doctoral dissertation titled "On alcoholic paralysis," which earned him his medical doctorate in 1887. This thesis not only showcased his meticulous research methodology but also highlighted his compassion for individuals grappling with addiction. Armed with his newfound expertise, Korsakov ascended to the position of Professor of Psychiatry at Moscow University, becoming the first individual to hold such a distinguished title in Russia. Over the course of his tenure, which spanned a mere 12 years, he revolutionized psychiatric practice, establishing the Moscow school of psychiatry and propelling Russian psychiatry onto the global stage.
Among Korsakov's most notable contributions were his groundbreaking publications, which shed light on the intricacies of mental disorders associated with alcoholism. His studies on alcoholic paralysis and memory disorders, encapsulated in works such as "Eine psychische Störung combinirt mit multipler Neuritis" and "Étude médico-psychologique sur une forme des maladies de la mémoire," paved the way for a deeper understanding of conditions now commonly referred to as Korsakov's syndrome and Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Korsakov's legacy endures through his compassionate approach to patient care and his unwavering commitment to advancing the field of neuropsychiatry. Through his pioneering research and tireless advocacy, Sergei Sergeyevich Korsakov left an indelible imprint on the annals of medical history, forever changing the way society perceives and addresses mental illness.
Sergei Sergeyevich Korsakov – Russian Neuropsychiatrist
