Infectious Diseases & Conditions

In three volumes, 610 essays are arranged alphabetically, varying in length from one to five pages, written by medical professionals, academics, and medical writers for a wide audience of nonspecialists and general readers. The essays identify, describe, and discuss pathogens and pathogenicity, the immune system, vaccines, diagnosis, prevention and treatment, drug resistance, epidemiology, history and organizations, research, and social context and concerns. Entries are clearly written, signed, organized for clarity and accessibility, and referenced and cross-referenced. The set's appendices offer various kinds of supplementary information such as definitions, a listing of medical journals, and pharmaceutical information. Indexing is thorough and useful--by anatomy or system affected, category, and subject--and online access to the contents is included with purchase. The editor is H. Bradford Hawley (emeritus, medicine, Boonshoft School of Medicine). Annotation c2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)