Diseases of the Nose, Throat and Ear

THIS volume is an attractively produced collection of thirty-nine clhapters on a wide variety of subjects written by a well balanced team of experts under the general editorship of Sir Cecil Wakeley. The team consists of members from the main London hospitals and from many widely scattered Provincial hospitals. Consequently a broad cross-sectional viewv of modern treatment is provided. Of general interest the article on streptomycin gives accurate guidance of its value and limitations specially in application to tuberculosis. The chapter concerning occupational therapy provides a welcome introduction to an increasingly important aspect of treatment. Three chapters are devoted to tuberculosis relating to B.C.G. inoculation, mass-radiography, antibiotic and surgical treatment. The value of the chest clinic in diagnosis and supervision of selected cases is emphasised. Cancer in various areas is referred to in four chapters, including breast and uterus with special reference to the tragedy of its incidence in the stomach. Prostatic carcinoma is considered under the aspects of prostatectomy, testicular evisceration and hormone therapy. Peptic ulcer treatment by vagotomy and the problem of perforation are considered in two chapters. Cardio-vascular problems of hypertension and emergencies are covered in two valuable chapters, though one cannot agree with the prohibition of intravenous mersalyl.. Apart from tuberculosis, two chapters are occupied with differential diagnosis and emergencies in respiratory conditions and provide real help. Gynecology is represented by chapters on prolapse and cancer of the uterus. Skin diseases are discussed regarding recent advances in treatment with special reference to Psoriasis. Pediatrics is well provided with four chapters, that on emergencies being specially valuable. Two useful chapters concern diabetic emergencies and management of the diabetic child. Chapters on plastic surgery, E.N.T. infections and anaemia indicate possibilities and expected results of modern therapy. The largest section of eight chapters deals with a heterogeneous collection of congenital and acquired orthopaedic problems. This proportion of the whole appears rather generous, specially in view of the fact that the treatments are all hospital procedures. If it does emphasise early diagnosis it may be justified. Generally the material is good, advice is clear and its rationale explained. The keen general practitioner specially will be well advised to buy and digest this book. J. S. M.