Practical Diabetes Care. By David Levy. 3rd Edition Published by Wiley‐Blackwell, 2011 Paperback, price: ISBN: 978 1 4443 3385 5 Website: www.wiley.com

Abstract

Each chapter has an attractive structure, beginning with a ‘key points’ box followed by a general introduction. Text for each clearly defined topic is kept to a minimum with clear, coloured headings and subheadings along with colour shading of boxes and tables. The references section to each chapter also contains suggestions for further reading and useful websites. The book tends to be more management rather than problem based, with coverage of all the recent major changes including new medications, clinical trials, and the move from DCCT-aligned HbA1c to IFCC measurement. There is discussion on the effects and lessons to be learnt from recent changes including withdrawn medications and the controversy over rosiglitazone. As a single author book, its main strength is that it is written by an experienced diabetes physician with a wealth of experience in managing patients and their problems on a day-to-day basis. This, however, is also its weakness as it misses out on the multidisciplinary team approach. The author by his own admission is not a dietitian but there is a brief personal viewpoint on the dietary management of type 2 diabetes. Although the DESMOND group education programme is mentioned it escapes an index entry. Parts of the book which are interesting or useful include trials to prevent progression of impaired glucose tolerance to diabetes, the limitations of screening, the timeline of new drugs in diabetes and the contrasting differences between diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar state. The information on the causes, classification and management of hypoglycaemia is useful, especially in the context of the current interest in this effect. In reading the book you are made aware of the prominence and influence of the ACCORD and ADVANCE trials on glycaemic, blood pressure and lipid control, as well as eye disease and neuropathy. This book has much to commend it for medical and nurse clinicians, although it may be less attractive for other members of the team or those interested in the process of care.