Medical Radiation Biology

Abstract

Though the objectives of this textbook are most laudable, the results are a severe disappointment. Perhaps it is too much to expect a significant treatise when responsibility is diffused through four editors and 32 contributors. Starting with the premise that this is "the first textbook in radiation biology specifically directed to the student of human health sciences" the authors aim at an audience of "residents, undergraduate medical students, other college and graduate students, and students in radiologic and nuclear technology." Unfortunately, they fail to meet the needs of any of their audience. After a delightful introduction considering the development of radiation science, the book launches into discussions of the physical, chemical, biologic, and genetic principles of radiation. These discussions are characterized by illogical development, technical and complex terminology, and inappropriate emphases. In approaching the genetic effects of diagnostic radiation, the authors spend much space on "x-ray-induced heritable changes that may