Imaging kidneys: unknown documents in the history of nephrology. Five consulti by Marcello Malpighi.

Consulti are one of the most interesting sources for reconstructing a true outline of the state of the medical art in the Early Modern period. They were epistulae--in Latin as well as in vernacular--sent to famous physicians to receive a more correct diagnosis, and better therapeutical prescriptions. They collect and illustrate case studies, therapeutical uses, as well as the patient's attitude towards disease. This article concerns five urological consulti by Marcello Malpighi.