Neurology

New Releases from McGraw-Hill

THE NEUROLOGICAL BASIS OF PAIN. Marco Pappagallo. McGraw-Hill.

Synopsis: Dr. Pappagallo (Director of the Division of Chronic Pain at Beth Israel Medical Center) has fashioned the authoritative text on the neurological basis for the reasons why we feel the sensation of pain. The Neuro Basis reads like an encyclopedia in that it is encyclopedic in scope — touching on the whole of the subject in a text divided into four primary parts. In Section One, the basis of different types if pain is analyzed – including analysis of the mechanisms of visceral and neuropathic pain and pain endemic to the autonomic nervous system. In addition, there is a fine chapter on the psychological aspects of pain. Section Two introduces data on how the physician should approach patient treatment. Section Three covers syndromes and various pain disorders, including several tremendous chapters on headache. Finally, Section Four covers applicable treatments for different kinds of pain, including discussion of anti-inflammatory and antidepressant therapy.

Recommended because: Of its long-term reference value to the Health Science library community. The Neuro Basis is an erudite demonstration of research and scholarship — covering every aspect of pain study in detail and with great depth. Today’s physician is confronted with complaints of pain on a constant basis — it is the reason most people visit their doctor in the first place. Consequently, this has become an area of medical study that needs to be addressed by every health care provider – from physician to resident to nurse practitioner. In this regard, Pappagallo’s text offers the consummate study tool, providing the information in a well-reasoned and organized manner — explaining the varied neurological ‘roots’ of pain before moving into patient evaluation and treatment. In addition to its value to the practicing physician, Neuro has obvious long-term reference to both student and licensed professional and is likely to prove to be the authority in the field for years to come.

Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Further recommended to instructors in Neurology departments for any courses premised on pain management and pain causation/treatment.