Basic Immunology: Functions and Disorders of the Immune System, 6th Edition

By Abul K. Abbas, MBBS, Andrew H. H. Lichtman, MD, PhD and Shiv Pillai, MBBS, PhD

ISBN: 9780323549431

Pub Date: April 10th, 2019

Reviewed By: Vincent K Tsiagbe, MS, Ph.D. (Rutgers University School of Dental Medicine)

Description

This well-done revision of a book on basic and relevant concepts of immunology integrates current developments in the field with clinical implications. An accompanying ebook and videos make this an appropriate resource for students or professionals in the field. The clinical correlates that accompany the book make it a valuable companion for students in basic science and clinical education, and a desirable reference for any readers interested in immunology.

Purpose

This edition incorporates the explosive advances in the knowledge about the immune system. It emphasizes the immunological basis for clinical observations in disease pathogenesis, as well as innovative immunotherapies. The concepts it presents facilitate understanding of the mechanisms involved in the treatment of various diseases, paramount among which are the developments in the immunotherapy of cancer. The enhanced use of illustrations helps in the comprehension of complex immunological principles.

Audience

This is appropriate for students in medical and dental schools, as well as students in the allied health professions and biology. Oncologists will appreciate the discussion of the immunological basis of modern cancer immunotherapy, including the use of checkpoint inhibitors and personalized cancer vaccines. The authors have vast experience and are associated with medical school courses.

Features

The book presents a fundamental understanding of the functions of the normal immune system and relates this knowledge to malfunctions of a “well-regulated system” that result in pathological diseases. This is an excellent introduction to the evolution of the immune response from innate to adaptive immunity, and it has clear demonstrations of the integration between the two. The use of clear, vivid, and colorful illustrations makes comprehension of the material easy for students to grasp. One area that could have been covered more thoroughly is the origin of the cells of the immune system.

Assessment

While some of this material might be found in other sources, this book incorporates updated information for a dynamic field in a manner that makes it enjoyable to read. The new edition is clearly warranted.

© Doody’s Review Service, 2020, Vincent K Tsiagbe, MS, Ph.D. (Rutgers University School of Dental Medicine) Review Score: 99-5 Stars!

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