Infectious Diseases & Conditions

Part of the Salem “Health” series, Hawley’s (Wright State Univ.; Magill’s Medical Guide) well-organized, thorough overview examines the origins, effects, and treatment of infection illnesses both common (flu, acne, cold sores) and rare (anthrax, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, prion diseases). Almost 600 alphabetically arranged articles by 186 contributors (mostly medical professionals, academics, and medical writers) begin with ready reference information, including affected system, transmission method, symptoms, screening and diagnosis, and more. Entries encompass additional reading, bibliographies, related websites, and “see also” references. New topics to this edition include global warming, Powassan virus, and travel medicine. Volume 3 offers a cumulative index and nine appendixes, featuring a list of Nobel Prize winners and a biographical dictionary of infectious disease scientists. Three indexes list material by anatomy/body system, category, and subject. Some articles include sidebars, black-and-white illustrations, and graphs. The print edition offers free online access. While other titles on diseases are aimed primarily at medical professionals or scientists, this one provides a jumping-off point for students and the public in need of additional information.