Professor Dr Philipp U. Heitz

Philipp U. Heitz worked in the field of human endocrinology in Basel, London and Zurich. He focussed his work on the biology of neuroendocrine tumors of the pancreas, gastro-intestinal tract, lung and thyroid, and on Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia, types 1 and 2 (MEN 1 and 2), using morphological, biochemical methods and techniques of molecular biology.
His research group integrated clinico-pathological correlations. Therefore, the group succeeded in establishing a precise classification system, criteria of the assessment of the biological behaviour, and to investigate the genetics of these tumors. This work was carried out in close collaboration with research groups in Hamburg, Brussels, Kiel, London and Boston. The results of this work permitted, among others, the publication of a classification system of neuroendocrine tumors and of MEN 1 and 2 of the World Health Organization (WHO). This classification is at present the basis of diagnosis and treatment of these tumors.
Philipp U. Heitz was director of the institute of pathology of the university of Basel for 5 years and subsequently chairman of the department of pathology of the university of Zurich during 17 years. The latter has become renowned for its research and teaching activities.