Schistosomiasis in Egypt

Abstract

Professor Abdel-Wahab's book is comprehensive, authoritative, and exceedingly readable. While highlighting the contributions of Egyptian investigators, the author's impressive awareness of the international scientific literature on schistosomiasis shows he is free of xenophobic tendencies. Indeed, the book's 544 references are remarkably well balanced, current, and conveniently presented and represent one of the most useful features of the book. The author writes in a clear and concise style. The contents are organized such that after a delightful historical review (Chapter I), the remainder of the book is essentially a textbook on schistosomiasis using Egypt as a “case study.” The subject is treated in a comprehensive and even-handed manner, with clinical and pathologic features of the disease receiving somewhat more emphasis than other topics. Most statements are appropriately supported by references, but occasional ones seem to fall into the category of often repeated but unsubstantiated claims.