Medical Book Review

Atopic Dermatitis: Second Edition
By Thomas Bieber and Donald Y. M. Leung
2009 Informa Healthcare
ISBN: 978-142007798-8

List Price: $299.95
Available from: Informa Healthcare

Reviewer:
Robbie Pesek, MD
Division of Allergy and Immunology
Department of Internal Medicine
University of South Florida College of Medicine
James A. Haley Veterans Hospital
Tampa, Florida USA

Description
The second edition of Atopic Dermatitis by Bieber and Leung provides a collection of papers from experts on topics relating to atopic dermatitis. Updates and scientific advancements from the first edition are also discussed.

Purpose
This text serves as a reference for an in-depth understanding of the mechanisms of atopic dermatitis as well as a guide for clinical management of patients presenting with this disorder.

Audience
This book is targeted to any physician or other health care professional who cares for children or adults with atopic dermatitis. It is likely to be most beneficial to the allergist-immunologist and dermatologist as well as those involved in research of this disease.

Features
The book is divided into four sections. The first section focuses on the mechanisms of atopic dermatitis with emphasis on genetics and the role of the epidermal barrier. The second section discusses cellular aspects including the role of the immune system. The third covers the impact of aeroallergens, food allergens, and infectious agents including fungi, bacteria, and viruses. The final section discusses a multispecialty approach to treat this skin disorder.

Assessment
Atopic Dermatitis: Second Edition serves as an excellent reference for clinicians and researchers on atopic dermatitis. Reading from start to finish will allow a greater understanding of the complexities of this disorder as well as help clinicians formulate a complete treatment plan for patients presenting with mild to severe disease. A good understanding of basic immunology will be helpful in gaining the most from this text.