Book Review

One of the most prolific authors in his field, Professor Scully has revised and expanded the first edition of his prize-winning textbook. The intended outcomes for readers are clearly stated and range from systematic history taking to medical management, as well as recognising the importance of liaison with clinical colleagues in other disciplines.

The layout of the second edition is similar to the first, with chapters demarcated by colour and conditions presented alphabetically. New chapters have been added on drooling and sialorrhoea, and adverse drug reactions, the latter presented as a series of tables according to oral signs or symptoms. Previous appendices are now included in the body of the text. There are many good-quality clinical photographs, photomicrographs, as well as tables, flow charts and management algorithms. The aetiopathogenesis of many conditions, e.g. pemphigoid, Sjogren’s syndrome, is presented in considerable detail. Subjects are well-referenced, including many of the author’s own papers and textbooks.

As acknowledged by the author, much of the practice of oral medicine is based on lower levels of evidence, such as case series and case-control studies, rather than the ideal of large randomised controlled trials. This should be borne in mind in relation to therapeutic guidelines. The book does not set out to cover the detailed management of difficult cases, but readers will become aware of the range of options for, and potential complexities of managing oral diseases.

This is an excellent reference book and guide to diagnosis and management in oral medicine. I recommend it to undergraduates and postgraduates, both medical and dental, with an interest in this field.