Dictionary of medical terms

This title builds upon earlier editions by streamlining definitions, removing multiple pharmacology entries, and adding terms such as "swine flu" and "posttraumatic stress disorder." Definitions, which are arranged alphabetically, include part of speech, pronunciation, a brief definition, an occasional example, and an acronym where applicable. "See" and "See Also" references appear in the main entries. Small diagrams found within individual entries are effective but entry selection is inconsistent. For example, the acronym PTSD is not cross referenced to the term posttraumatic stress disorder and three (A, AB, and B) of the four blood types appear in the main entry section but O blood type has been excluded. Appendixes include anatomy diagrams, tables of commonly prescribed drugs (brand name, generic name, over the counter, herbs) along with each drug's common use. Herb tables include known drug interactions. The commonly used medical abbreviations table includes GSW for gunshot wound but excludes ERT and HRT for estrogen replacement therapy and hormone replacement therapy, respectively. VERDICT This is a decent pocket guide for a circulating collection but not a replacement for the more extensive Stedman's Medical Dictionary or Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary.-Laurie Selwyn, formerly with Grayson Cty. Law Lib., Sherman, TX (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.