Diagnosis and management in primary care: a problem-based approach

Editors: William CW Wong, Martin Lindsay, Albert Lee. The Chinese University Press, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong. US$25, pp 301, ISBN 978 962 996 333 0

Common clinical encounters are always seen more often in the primary care setting. However, there are relatively few useful textbooks which are specifically written for primary care practitioners. The editors of this new book should be congratulated to fill this gap.

This book is contributed by eighteen authors, including the three editors. It is divided into three main parts: Part I - Principles of diagnosis and management (Chapters 1-9), Part II - Problem-based diagnoses and management in the general population (Chapters 10-17) and Part III - Problem-based diagnoses and management in the specific groups (Chapters 18-24).

Part I of the book covers the important aspects of primary care, including consultation skills, counselling and psychological issues. Part II covers some important general topics, for example, tiredness, shortness of breath, dizziness and headaches which often present diagnostic and management challenges to many practitioners. Part III covers some specific conditions, for example, hoarseness, erectile dysfunction and menstrual problems which are frequently seen in primary care but are sometimes difficult to manage. It finishes with a short section on Self-assessment.

As the title suggests, nearly all the chapters were written in a problem-based format by beginning with a clinical scenario, which immediately kick starts the active learning process for the readers. Important points are highlighted throughout the chapters which end with helpful summaries.

This book will be useful for both senior and junior practitioners in primary care, including trainees in Family Medicine as well as undergraduate students. It can also be stimulating reading for practitioners of other disciplines who want to know more about primary care. It would be a handy addition to have on the book shelf of busy primary care doctors who need a quick reference.