Book Review: Human Physical Growth and Maturation: Methodologies & Factors

partly related to the reader's field of interest. Thus a gastroenterologist may find 'Treatment in Gastroenterology' rather pedestrian with little major progress in the dissolution of gallstones, for example, since the fascinating subject was first excellently reviewed in the 1973 edition by the same author, Professor Dowling. Moving outside his own speciality, however, he may be surprised by the exciting advances in what used to be considered the backwater of rheumatology or, even, the stagnant pool of dermatology. The stimulus to progress has obviously been the multidisciplinary approach, with particular emphasis on immunology and genetics, exemplified by Dr Panayi's paper on the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. The cardiology section has a strong surgical bias. It describes the major advances in correction of congenital lesions which have radically altered their natural history and, as described by Dr Jane Somerville, have created problems in adulthood. The initial enthusiasm for, and uncritical acceptance of, coronary artery surgery is soberly, but hopefully, evaluated by Mr Keith Ross. The newer imaging techniques which may help to clarify selection and evaluation of such patients is discussed by Dr G J Davies. Nephrology manages to avoid the usual immunologically orientated aspects and deals instead with a useful miscellany of therapeutically orientated topics. ERIC R BECK Editorial Representative, Section of Medicine. Experimental Medicine & Therapeutics