However, although neuroimaging is mentioned as a test to consider, no guidance is given on when to consider it. Of more concern is the absence of treatment recommendations for those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other dementing illnesses. Whether this represents therapeutic nihilism or whether a decision was made to include this information in the Practical Guide to the Care of the Geriatric Patient is unclear. At any rate, it is a conspicuous omission in a book that covers as much ground as this one does. The manual organizes much of its information in tables, charts, drawings and full color figures, all of which are quite clear and useful.
Text is presented in outline form, making it easy to find information.
A formulary presents available forms, recommended dosages, indications, contraindications and side effects of many medications. There are also tables comparing different medications in a class. Finally, a section on interpretation of laboratory results provides normal values as well as lists of situations in which a test may be elevated or decreased. If a resident or a student is limited to a single portable resource on a busy general medicine service, this is it, although it should be kept in mind that it will take up a lab coat pocket on its own. Edited by Judith J. Baker.