Handbook of Diagnostic Tests (3rd Ed.)

Philadelphia, PA. Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins. 2003. 822 pp., $40.95. (800) 638-3030, http://www.lww.com

The only handbook to explain test results two ways-by disease and by test.

Part 1, Key Diagnostic Findings in Major Disorders, includes more than 500 diseases with their indicated test results and a comprehensive quick reference. Part 2, An Alphabetical List of Common Tests, provides more than 550 diagnostic tests, up-to-date and organized by modality. Each test features a test overview, purpose, patient preparation, procedure and posttest care, precautions, normal findings, and reference values. In addition, abnormal findings and their implications as well as factors that can alter or invalidate test results, are addressed.