Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide to Diagnosis and Therapy

Abstract

Clinical Dermatology, by Thomas P. Habif, MD, provides an excellent introduction to dermatology for nondermatologists. For practicing dermatologists, the summaries are valuable. Also, the brief reviews of common and uncommon skin diseases provide a quick refresher course and superb patient-education material. Twenty-seven chapters cover, among other subjects, topical therapy and topical corticosteroids. The chapter on dermatologic surgical procedures gives an up-to-date, albeit superficial, review, including proper punch and shave biopsy techniques. In addition, the brief summaries of Mohs micrographic surgery, dermabrasion, dermal implants, lasers, and liposuction are well done and informative. One of the more useful aspects of this textbook is the appendix and dermatologic formulary, which give helpful lists, including sources of salicylates, dyes, and benzoic acid, and summarize commonly used medications. In addition, there is a section on adverse drug interactions, a rapid reference in dealing with commonly used medications. Probably the most impressive contribution of the book