Clinical Guide to Laboratory Tests

Abstract

The Clinical Guide to Laboratory Tests potentially provides valuable information in a condensed format, especially for the house officer or nurse needing a quick reference. Despite these advantages, it is a difficult book to review, particularly because its very strengths in presenting large amounts of information result in weaknesses. For example, explanations on serum glucose measurements and the glucose tolerance test are as complete as expected, including references from the National Diabetes Data Group. Conversely, descriptions of the sweat chloride test include only a mention of reference values established at the University of Kentucky Medical Center, Lexington, and a questionable comment on possible false-negative results caused by excessive sweating during hot weather. In addition, there is no reference to the Cystic Fibrosis Report ( J Pediatr 1976; 88(II):711-750) or a similar report that might provide an authoritative source of information. Unfortunately many other test discussions also cite only textbooks or locally