Magill's Medical Guide - Hardcover

*Starred Review* Magill’s Medical Guide has been a standard lay medical resource since it was first published, in 1995. The fourth edition, completely revised and updated by a group of health professionals with academic appointments, has 1,017 alphabetical entries ranging in length from one to seven pages. These cover diseases and disorders (Chlamydia, Tourette’s syndrome); anatomy and biology (Abdomen, Proteomics); development (Aging, Puberty and adolescence); and procedures (Breast biopsy, Endoscopy). Social and ethical issues such as Domestic violence and Euthanasia receive coverage, too. Some 58 new entries cover subjects previously omitted (Cardiac arrest, Sleep) as well as new and emerging topics (Avian influenza, Facial transplantation). All entries begin with a summary of the type of entry, the anatomy or system affected, pertinent medical specialties or fields, and a definition. There are also definitions of key terms. Sidebars highlight relevant points or provide added information on topics that have recently been in the news (women using Accutane, dietary supplement crackdown by the FDA). Entries conclude with updated lists of additional resources, and black-and-white photographs and line drawings illustrate the text. The article on male circumcision has a slight anti-circumcision bias but does discuss the possible advantages of the procedure. The set has several indexes; a glossary; lists of symptoms and warning signs, diseases and conditions, pharmaceuticals, and types of health-care providers; a general bibliography; and directories of journals, organizations, and Web sites. The major change in this edition is access to a free online version, Salem Health, for those who purchase the print set. Once the online subscription is activated, it will last until the publication of a new edition of Magill’s Medical Guide. The online option includes unlimited simultaneous usage and remote access. Individual users can also create a profile and account to save searches. Magill’s Medical Guide continues to be a useful resource for school and public libraries. Although it lacks the depth and color illustrations of The Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine (2006) and related Gale resources, the reasonable price and innovative subscription model make it an excellent choice for small libraries. Over the next five years, the publisher plans to add to Magill’s Medical Guide with specialty works on cancer, mental health, genetics and inherited diseases, and other topics, and libraries that purchase these titles will see the online versions added to their existing Salem Health database. --Barbara Bibel