Abstract
This current edition of Small Animal Medical Diagnosis updates the version published 17 years ago. Each chapter follows the same basic format based on a problem-orientated approach to common medical problems. The first chapter discusses this approach to each case based on four simple steps; data collection, problem identification, plan formulation and assessment and follow-up, allowing readers not previously familiar with this approach to become accustomed to it.
Each chapter then takes a common medical problem, and introduces a typical case scenario and the problem-based approach is used to investigate this problem in more detail. The pathophysiology of problems, such as pyrexia or coughing, is explained in simple and easy to read terms. Each chapter has a thorough list of possible differential diagnoses and an outline of a possible plan for further investigations. The integration of clinical cases is a particularly useful approach and one of the assets of this book; each chapter is highly relevant to practice situations. The last few chapters focus on common haematological, biochemical, urinalysis and acid–base abnormalities, the latter of which can be notoriously difficult to interpret. However, the problem-based approach of this book effectively simplifies each step, and is able to explain the underlying physiology in simple terms, making it a surprisingly easy read.
The overall layout of the book makes it very readable and approachable. The information is nicely condensed to provide the pertinent information for each major clinical problem, making this book particularly useful for undergraduate and recent veterinary graduates. It provides a wealth of information, and would be a useful addition to any veterinary practice library.