In memoriam Egils Vītols (30.06.1941.–11.07.2026.)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Professor Dr. habil. med. Egils Vītols. 

He was an outstanding neurologist, professor, and one of the foremost figures in Latvian academic neurology. His professional path was dedicated to the development of neurology, education of medical doctors, and patient care.  

Prof. Vītols graduated from the Rīga Medical Institute (now Rīga Stradiņš University) in 1965. In 1971, he defended his Candidate of Sciences dissertation, but in 1982, he became an assistant professor at the Department of Neurology. In 1999, he defended his habilitation thesis.

Prof. Egils Vītols made a remarkable scientific contribution to the development of neurology in Latvia. His research was particularly notable in the field of the pathogenesis of acroparaesthesia and neurological syndromes caused by dynamic loading on the spinal column.  

From 1994 to 2004, he headed the RSU Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery.  Alongside his academic and research activities, Prof. Vītols also led the Neurology and Neurosurgery Clinic at Riga East Clinical University Hospital, making a significant contribution to the advancement of the care of neurological and epilepsy patients.  

Professor was actively involved in professional organisations. His experience, sense of duty, and dedication to medicine influenced generations of doctors. He was a teacher, colleague, and respected authority whose legacy will endure in the history of Latvian neurology and in the memories of his students, colleagues, and patients as a commitment to his outstanding expertise.  

His colleagues at RSU remember him as a highly intelligent and compassionate person, who always offered advice to his colleagues and supported them in difficult times.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, students, and all who knew Prof. Egils Vītols.