Coronary artery disease in pictures | |
Atlas of atherosclerosis. Risk factors and treatment. Peter W F Wilson (editor). Philadelphia: Current Medicine, 2000 (269 pp) ISBN 1 57340 137 4. |
Atherosclerosis remains
a common and significant cause of morbidity and mortality in our society. In this book, presented as an atlas, a laudable attempt has been made to explain the histopathology and pathogenesis of the disorder, highlighting the underlying biochemistry of the lipoproteins and their role in atherosclerosis. The contribution of diet, medication and the risk factors in coronary artery disease have been emphasised, together with the importance of diabetes mellitus and gender differences. The cost effectiveness of the various strategies and the prevention and treatment of the risk factors involved are succinctly summarised.
The contributors are all from the United States and are made up largely of distinguished clinicians and scientists. The work excels in its illustrations, with high quality black-and-white and colour plates, diagrams and charts. It is well referenced, printed on quality glossy paper and has much of the information presented as legends to the illustrations. This approach has resulted in brief introductions for each chapter and a style and content which is especially reader friendly. No attempt is made to review the role of the interventional cardiologist or cardiac surgeon in the management of coronary artery disease. The book also concentrates on the adult population, with little discussion of the management of the child or adolescent. This is a well presented and resourced atlas, summarising the current knowledge on atherosclerosis. It also provides clear documentation of appropriate preventive measures and medical treatment modalities in reducing the morbidity and mortality of this all too common disease. For a book of this quality, the $110 price tag seems very reasonable. Samuel Menahem
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