The Department of Neurology is saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Barrie James Hurwitz, Associate Professor Emeritus of Medicine in the Departments of Neurology and Clinical Science, on February 18, 2026.
After completing his neurology training in New York, Dr. Hurwitz joined Duke in 1978. He predominantly focused on Guillain-Barré syndrome, then a condition without effective treatment. He pioneered the use of plasma exchange therapy for affected patients, work that led to the first national clinical trial of plasma exchange for Guillain-Barré syndrome. Plasma exchange remains a standard treatment worldwide.
During his time at Duke, Dr. Hurwitz held appointments as Associate Professor of Medicine and Associate Professor of Community and Family Medicine before being named emeritus in 2011.
Those wishing to honor Dr. Hurwitz’s memory may contribute to the Duke Hospice Program; Beth El's Chevra Kaddisha or Community of Caring Fund; the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina; or Jewish For Good's Food Pantry (in drop down box under Campaigner).
View Dr. Hurwitz's full obituary or learn more about his work in this 2012 video done by the Duke School of Medicine Alumni.