Bengt Rippe, MD, PhD
January 1, 1950 - October 20, 2016
Professor Bengt Rippe died on the 20th of October, 2016 after a period of severe illness. He was Professor and Head of the Department of Nephrology at Lund University and Senior Consultant at the Department of Nephrology at Skane University Hospital in Lund, Sweden.
Professor Rippe started his studies in medicine and mathematics at the age of 17. He made an impressive research career at the Department of Physiology in Gothenburg, and his results contributed extensively to an increased knowledge regarding transcapillary transport, glomerular function, and the physiology of peritoneal dialysis. His findings regarding the “three pore model” for transcapillary transport was revolutionary in the field, and led to the discovery of “aquaporins.” Dr. Rippe received several honors throughout his career, including the “Fernström” diploma for his outstanding research in 1988. In addition to his extensive work in the research laboratory, he also continued his medical career and became a skilled specialist in nephrology.
Bengt Rippe was appointed as Professor in Nephrology at Lund University in 1990. In addition to conducting research, Professor Rippe was also heavily involved in both teaching at the medical school at Lund University and practicing clinical work at the hospital.
Professor Rippe was president of the Swedish Society of Nephrology from 2003-2005 and was also an important spokesman for the establishment of the Swedish Renal Registry. He was always very eager to optimize the care, diagnosis, and treatment for all kidney patients, to improve patient outcomes on dialysis, and to increase awareness of the renal diseases.
Only a few days before his death, he continued to teach medical students, tutored his young research fellow at the laboratory, and participated in clinical discussions. We will remember the generosity with what Bengt shared his knowledge and will continue to admire his humbleness that made his greatness so evident.
Bengt Rippe will be sorely missed by his many friends and colleagues.
Anders Christensson; Head of Department of Nephrology, Skane University Hospital
Kerstin Westman; President of the Swedish Society of Nephrology
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