Dr. Luis Fernando Arias Restrepo
In Memoriam
(1969 - 2024)
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Dr. Luis Fernando Arias Restrepo, a renowned pathology professor at the University of Antioquia. His tireless work in the field of renal pathology and his commitment to educating new generations solidified him as an iconic figure in the medical field. Today, his academic and human legacy remains alive in those who had the honor of knowing him and learning from him.
Dr. Arias studied medicine and specialized in pathology at the University of Antioquia. He trained as a renal pathologist at San Carlos Clinical Hospital in Madrid, Spain, and earned his PhD in Anatomical Pathology from the Complutense University of Madrid in 2004. He was a member of the Renal Pathology Society since 2005.
For more than two decades, Dr. Arias dedicated his life to teaching at the University of Antioquia, influencing multiple generations of physicians, not only pathologists, but also specialists in internal medicine, nephrology, rheumatology, and others. He generously shared his academic knowledge, his love for his Alma Mater, and his respect for the distinguished professors who came before him. He often fondly mentioned that “we stand on the shoulders of giants,” a reminder of his appreciation for the effort and dedication of those who trained him.
Throughout his career, he diagnosed over 10,000 renal biopsies and meticulously maintained the database for all of them, facilitating multiple research studies. He was a pioneer in introducing electron microscopy for the study of renal biopsies at the University of Antioquia. Additionally, in 2006, he founded Kidneypathology.com, a reference website for students and professionals from Latin America, Spain, and other regions of the world.
An example of academic and scientific excellence, but above all, of integrity and humility, he now becomes one of those giants on whose shoulders all of us who had the great opportunity to learn from him continue to stand.
His teaching legacy will continue through his students, colleagues, and friends, and of course, through Kidneypathology.com.
Outside the world of medicine, he had a great passion for free flight and regularly practiced hang gliding. He used to say, “It’s not a hobby, it’s a way of life.”
Dr. Arias was always accompanied by his beloved wife, Natalia Ortiz, who was his driving force, constant support, and source of immense pride and joy. Their joint work in the technical aspect of renal biopsies was key in consolidating the renal pathology area. To her and his family, we extend our sincerest condolences.
Thank you, Prof. Arias, for your legacy, for reminding us that knowledge and perseverance are the pillars upon which great achievements are built.
In his own words, taken from pathologyoutlines.com: