Stefan G Kiessling, MD(University of Kentucky College of Medicine)

Authored by experts in pediatric nephrology practicing in India and the United States, this is an update of an accessible textbook that covers all major clinical aspects of the field. Numerous figures and tables are well integrated into 26 structured chap

The book continues to focus on the clinical aspects of normal and abnormal kidney function as well as diagnostic evaluation and treatment of clinical conditions. In contrast to other books in this field, this one uses a predominantly clinical approach, without getting lost in too much detail of nonclinical aspects that interested readers can find elsewhere.

Useful for clinicians at any level of expertise, the book has a broad target audience. Given its concise but comprehensive structure -- each chapter covers a specific topic -- it is a great resource for clinicians. As the editors note, the book does not focus on genetic and molecular aspects of disease that have not been introduced into the clinical arena. The wide range of topics makes it a useful tool for clinicians at a more senior level who want to quickly review a topic. Because of its easily accessible structure, patients and families seeking medical information also might find it useful.

All essential topics in the field of pediatric nephrology are covered, including anatomy and physiology, renal replacement therapies and kidney transplantation. A minor disadvantage might be that the number of listed references, though very up to date, is small and not referenced directly within the text. Most of the 26 chapters highlight key points and all chapters are structured similarly to allow easy access to each topic.

This book successfully accomplishes its goals. Along with the other major textbooks in this field, Pediatric Nephrology, 6th edition, by Avner et al. (Springer, 2009) and Comprehensive Pediatric Nephrology, by Geary and Schaefer (Elsevier, 2008), this new edition will continue to be a widely used resource for students, clinicians, and patients.