In this age of automation, computerization, and increasingly sophisticated instrumentation of laboratory medicine, the fourth edition of this book continues to provide the nonspecialist with instruction and guidance in the vast and complex field of biochemical physiopathology. The subject is presented on three levels: structure and metabolism of basic constituents (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids); physiologic chemistry of specific organs (eg, kidney, liver, endocrine glands); important disease entities (diabetes, nephritis, gout, etc). To survey this huge material and bring it nearly up to date is no mean achievement for a single author. Hence, minor blemishes should not be held against him, such as failure to mention IgE among the classes of immunoglobulins.
The general approach resembles that of a teacher addressing his brighter students with the intent of stimulating them to see more than one side of an argument. Many purely clinical aspects are discussed in detail, with the author