[Larrey and Egyptian ophthalmia].

During the napoleonic expedition to Egypt (1798-1801), a new ophthalmic disease, the "egyptian ophthalmia", was discovered by the french physicians. We analysed a contemporary study published by the surgeon Jean-Dominique Larrey. The accuracy of the clinical description enables us to suggest hypotheses upon the origin if the egyptian ophthalmia: Weeks' conjunctivitis, gonorrheal conjunctivitis, trachoma. Treatments are also reviewed. Larrey is to be seen as a symbol of the transition from the old medical vision to modern clinical medicine.