Mims’ Medical Microbiology and Immunology, 7th Edition

By: Richard Goering, BA MSc PhD

ISBN: 9780323937252

Pub Date: March 12, 2024

Reviewer: Carlos Figueroa Castro, MD (Medical College of Wisconsin)

Description

This book serves as a comprehensive review of medical microbiology and immunology, featuring systematic coverage of infectious diseases by body site, alongside fundamental concepts in laboratory diagnosis, therapeutics, and infection control. This update builds upon its predecessor, published in 2019, with significant additions addressing emerging pathogens and diseases.

Purpose

The book presents an innovative, integrative approach to infectious diseases by establishing a solid foundation in microbiology and host response to infection. The text’s organization emphasizes the critical interplay between pathogen and host, making complex concepts more accessible. This methodology represents a refreshing departure from traditional approaches, enabling students to develop a thorough understanding of clinical care grounded in solid microbiological and immunological principles.

Audience

The book serves a diverse readership, functioning effectively as a primary textbook for introductory microbiology courses and potentially medical immunology programs. Different sections offer varying utility depending on the reader’s specialty, with clinicians particularly benefiting from practice-oriented segments. The authors, recognized experts in their field, successfully balance academic rigor with clinical relevance.

Book Content/Features

The book includes five principal sections: basic microbiology, immunology, basic concepts in infectious diseases, clinical presentation of infectious diseases, and diagnostic and therapeutic methods. The authors demonstrate remarkable skill in distilling complex information into concise, accessible content. Both the diagrams and clinical photographs are of exceptional quality, enhancing the learning experience. The online companion features an extensive microbial database (“bug parade”), providing additional depth for those seeking comprehensive coverage of individual pathogens. Distinctive features include high-resolution clinical photographs and illustrations, comprehensive online resources, updated coverage of emerging pathogens, clinical correlation boxes linking basic science to patient care, and clear, well-organized boxed by the end of each chapter summarizing key concepts.

Assessment

While initially comparable to Levinson’s Review of Medical Microbiology and Immunology: A Guide to Clinical Infectious Disease, 18th Edition, Chin-Hong et al. (McGraw-Hill, 2024), this book offers distinctly different value. Where Levinson’s work excels in USMLE preparation through its extensive question bank, this book provides more thorough background information in microbiology and infectious diseases. The inclusion of current topics such as COVID-19, Candida auris, and Mpox demonstrates the text’s contemporary relevance and justifies this new edition. Its integrated approach and comprehensive coverage make it an invaluable resource for both students and practicing clinicians. This book successfully bridges the gap between basic science and clinical practice, offering a thorough yet accessible review of medical microbiology and immunology. Its balanced approach, current content, and high-quality visual aids make it a valuable addition to any medical professional’s library, particularly those seeking to strengthen their understanding of the relationship between microbial pathogens and host response.

©Doody’s Review Service, 2025, Carlos E Figueroa Castro, MD (Medical College of Wisconsin), Doody’s Score: 3 stars!

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