As we approach the publication of the 10th edition of Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases, we at Elsevier honor the memory of Dr. Gerald (Jerry) Lee Mandell, who passed away on July 13, 2023, at his home in North Garden, Virginia, USA, at the age of 86. A distinguished figure in the field of infectious diseases, Dr. Mandell’s contributions have profoundly shaped medical education and practice.

Dr. Mandell was one of the founders of this landmark textbook in the mid-1970s, alongside R. Gordon Douglas Jr. and John Bennett. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive resource in a nascent specialty, Dr. Mandell collaborated closely with Douglas and Bennett, initiating intense discussions and meetings—some held in airport lounges—that fostered a strong collegial bond.

The editors decided early on to format the book with sections on basic principles, clinical syndromes, agent-based chapters, and specialized topics, such as infections in immunocompromised hosts. These collaborative meetings were often intense but never rancorous, further strengthening the bond among the editors. Dr. Mandell’s insistence on quality and his broad knowledge of infectious diseases were pivotal in creating a definitive guide that would become an essential reference for generations of clinicians and researchers.

Under Dr. Mandell’s leadership, Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases has evolved through ten editions, and the forthcoming one will be dedicated to him in recognition of his lasting influence on the field. His expertise and dedication have left an indelible mark on the discipline of infectious diseases.

As we remember Dr. Gerald Mandell, we celebrate his extraordinary contributions to medicine and the enduring legacy of his work, which will continue to educate and inspire future generations of infectious diseases specialists, researchers, and other healthcare professionals. Please join us in honoring his memory, service, and vision.

Gerald L Mandell (right) with his coeditors, John Bennett (left) and R. Gordon Douglas, Jr. (center) ~ 1978, all wearing the shirt Dr. Mandell designed. (Photo courtesy of John Bennett.)

Get your copy of Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases, 10th Edition here!