The Developing Human: Clinically Oriented Embryology With STUDENT CONSULT Online Access » (8th Edition)

Moore, Keith L., PhD, FIAC, FRSM (Univ of Toronto); Persuad, T.V.N., MD, PhD, DSc, FRCPath (Lond) (Univ of Manitoba)

This textbook on embryology and teratology describes each stage from conception to birth, and details the development of various organs and systems. Particular attention is given to the emergence of birth defects. Moore taught at the University of Toronto; Persaud, at the University of Manitoba. Annotation (c)2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Michael F. Dauzvardis

This is a clear and concise treatise on embryology with a special focus on clinically related topics. This sixth edition represents a considerable improvement over the fifth edition, published in 1993. Geared toward first or second-year medical students, the purpose is to enlighten the reader about the intricacies of embryological development as well as introduce the student to the molecular basis of development as it applies to clinically relevant issues. Although targeted toward novice medical students, practitioners in the field of obstetrics and gynecology would find this work a useful review and reference tool. Undergraduate students in biology, nursing, and other health related fields could also benefit from its use. The authors succeed in highlighting the key events of human development from gametogenesis to birth. They accomplish this journey through the use of simplistic, yet informative illustrations and unencumbered text. A sprinkling of scanning electron micrographs coupled with clinical correlations and study questions help to punctuate important facts and processes. Five beautifully illustrated timetables found in the appendix serve as ready reference to salient facts. This is, indeed, an easy-to-read account of human embryogenesis. The authors, by virtue of increasing the amount of clinical material, adding new color photography, including more scanning electron micrographs, expanding sections on teratology, and including simplified information on molecular mechanisms, have perhaps set a new standard for teaching embryology to first-year medical students. In a time when medical students are required to digest even more rote facts and are also thrown even earlierinto the clinical fray, this book should serve as a welcome addition to their educational war chest.