ADVANCES IN VETERINARY SCIENCE

Abstract

A decade ago first of this series made its debut. Since then, authors have verified what they call series' unifying theme. The answer, they say, lies in dual function of veterinary science, to further human as well as animal welfare, and to provide experimental models for human medicine.' This volume, consisting of eight chapters authored by experts in their own fields, is a major contribution to concept of comparative medicine. An outstanding chapter on mycotoxicoses treats of maladies in both man and animal which are, for most part, poorly understood and underinvestigated. Toxic substances of fungal origin, etiologic agents, abound and await study as possible major causal factors in diseases of unknown etiology. Special mention must be made of excellent review of veterinary dermatology and of veterinary cardiology, both of which offer unique opportunities for extended studies. Comprehensive in approach is treatment of helminth immunity, long considered Cinderella of immunology. The authors wisely point to financial obstacle to advancing this field, especially in light of need for making studies of natural host of each particular parasite, large domestic animal. The discussion of shipping fever in cattle points to possibility of common etiologic factors impinging upon multiple Also, it reaffirms belief that respiratory diseases in domesticated species, including man, represent the problem of highest morbidity, economic loss, etiologic complexity, and therapeutic nihilism. A special chapter on tuberculosis emphasizes that the ultimate control of an infectious disease in one species depends upon control in other species. The authors are to be commended for their judicious selection of contemporary problems for comprehensive treatment in chapters of this volume. All previous volumes reflect same degree of excellence and good scientific reporting that appear in this edition. For those biomedical scientists who are seeking new avenues for further study, or reclarification of present-day concepts, this volume is an essential part of their reading program. JAMES LIEBERMAN