W. A. Newman Dorland

Excellent Medical Reference: My wife and I purchased this book as a graduation present for our daughter who recently graduated from the University of Hawaii School of Medicine, Masters in Speech Pathology program. She loved the book and keeps it in her office for quick reference. She found it immensely helpful and easier to access than the internet. lol

This work is devoted to recording the current terminology in medicine and allied sciences. Eighty-four experts across the disciplines reviewed coded entries, using advanced technology. For this -- "the most extensively revised edition" -- this meant using a coded master file on computer "tape" and electronically phototypeset using a cathode ray tube. (!)

Continues in the tradition of dictionary-making, citing the 24th edition: "All learning in science is based on education in vocabulary, for show more the imagery of wors and symbols is the only means to expression of scientific data and concepts."

Despite the use of "illustrated" in the title, there are very few photos or illustrations. It does include alternate spellings, pronunciation, plural forms, and a lexicographical preference for etymologically sound and concise meanings. Includes a list of etymology for parsing combined forms in a compound English derivative. [xxxii]

For but one example, with melalgia, melancholia, melicera, and melitis, the Greek derivation of the word form "mel" is actually different: "mel" = limb, member; "melan" = black; "meli" = honey/syrup; and melon = cheek. show less

Includes definitions, derivations and pronunciations; illustrated by hundreds of drawings and portraits (mostly black and white sketches, but some full colour plates).

Newer edition from previous Primary Care Core Content book. David Chamberlain