"The five "books" or sections are as follows: diseases and disorders (approximately 700 are described in detail); differential diagnosis (identification of signs and symptoms - substantially expanded for this edition); clinical algorithms to guide the patient's workup and therapy; normal lab values and interpretation of results of commonly ordered tests; and clinical practice recommendations - guidelines from the US Preventive Services Task Force. Each entry follows a bulleted format to efficiently communicate the most important information. The appendix addresses complementary and alternative medicine and includes an extensive section on primary care procedures. This annually updated reference is designed for quick access, and it could b e an excellent choice for the one medical book needed if stranded on a desert island (preferably near a hospital and an internet connection)."