Comprehensive textbook of allergy - Striking the Right Balance

The book under review 'Comprehensive Textbook of Allergy' includes all allergy topics. The book has 100 chapters in 15 sections by 112 international specialists. The textbook provides a systematic approach to treating all types of allergies. The editors incorporated tables, flow charts, and coloured figures at the relevant places in the textbook. These graphics are printed on high-quality paper and are easy to read. Immunopathophysiology begins with immune system development, immunological effector mechanisms, and allergy evolution. Allergic march is linked to environmental and microbiological factors. Field sampling, pollen identification, pollen calendar creation, and interpretation are elaborated in detail along with clinically relevant aerobiological features. Most aeroallergens such as house mites, cockroaches, and animal dander have been extensively discussed. The book addresses nose-to-chest respiratory allergies. A dedicated food allergy section discusses effects of additives and processing on their allergenicity. Dermatologists and allergists have discussed skin allergies extensively. The textbook covers adverse medication reactions, venom hypersensitivity, ocular allergies, and lesser-known silk and latex allergies. Clinical examination, allergy testing, structure, function, and inflammation assessments have all been reviewed. Also highlighted are radiography and sleep investigations in allergic patients. Pharmacotherapy for allergies includes all drugs, from biologics to conventional. The section's chapters cover drug delivery devices and methods to the needy. Next, prevention-focused immunotherapeutic compounds are discussed. The complementary and alternative medicine segment covers allergic patients holistically. The section on allergy practice emergencies ensures proper management in an emergency room. Pollution, pregnancy, viral infections, and genetics are prioritised. Hypersensitivity to human dander and nephrotic syndrome have been addressed. The chapter on vaccination for allergic patients helps the indigent. The book dispels various allergy myths with evidence. A medicolegally safe allergist office set-up is described. We know that any specialisation grows with research. The book simplifies biostatistics to help clinicians and students, which will encourage research in this field. Allergic diseases and the sleep-wake cycle have been linked. The future therapeutics and research molecules have been included. Readers can self-assess with 200 multiple-choice questions at the end. This most comprehensive allergy textbook offers a new perspective. Its reader-friendly approach and the significant use of visual aids such as images, tables, and flowcharts, and input from prominent specialists worldwide set it apart. The textbook provides a future perspective on allergic disorders and their ethical and safe management. All doctors, medical students, and others who deal with allergy patients should have this book. I wish it also had a hardbound cover, it being bulky with close to 1000 pages.