Detection of Immune-Associated Genetic Markers of Human Disease

Abstract

In his introductory remarks, Dr. Reilly indicates that he wrote this book in an attempt to help young physicians learn the principles of ambulatory medicine. He has succeeded in this effort. In my opinion, this work fills a definite gap in the present array of medical textbooks about outpatient care. This is not a comprehensive text that reviews every disease that afflicts human beings. Rather, it describes an approach to problems commonly encountered by internists in outpatient practice: low-back pain, sore throat, diarrhea, headache, knee pain, urinary tract infections in female patients, vulvovaginal disorders, genitourinary infections in male patients, shoulder pain, dizziness, abdominal pain, cough, and chest pain. The author uses a format of illustrative case histories followed by a discussion of diagnostic methods and treatment modalities. The cost-effectiveness of specific diagnostic studies related to each problem is thoroughly and thoughtfully covered. Although this format is generally good, the key instructive points are scattered throughout the discussion of the case history. Consequently, each chapter is easy to read independently, but answers to specific questions cannot be found easily and quickly. The quality of coverage of the individual topics, although generally good, ranges from superb (low-back pain and cough) to just adequate (chest pain). Each topic is extensively referenced, and the book has an abundance of illustrations, useful algorithms, and tables of differential diagnoses. In summary, this book was a pleasure to review. It supplements the existing textbooks of medicine, which generally cover individual diseases admirably but often are deficient in their presentation of practical approaches to the common symptoms of patients. Young physicians at any level of training should find this work interesting and well worth the investment of $44.50. Moreover, experienced physicians should find the book easy to read and replete with practical hints that might refine their clinical skills in a variety of areas.