The Surfactant System of the Lung

It is startling to realize that since the observations of von Neergaard (1929) and Pattle (1955) a book of this length, with 328 references, can be compiled on the surfactant system of the lung. Emile M. Scarpelli's work does this and more. Assuming that the reader has little prior knowledge of the subject the author has produced a comprehensive yet readable monograph for students, practicing physicians, and investigators in the science of pulmonary surfaces. The book includes sections on lung mechanics and surface phenomena, morphology, histochemistry, biochemistry, biosynthesis, and physical characteristics of the surfactant system. Unique is the chapter on comparative anatomy and physiology of the system. Quite properly, the studies of fetal and newborn lung surface phenomena receive a detailed and large amount of attention. Clinical application and pathology appropriately follow the background material developed by the basic review. The tables, graphs, and charts supporting each chapter are mostly