McAlpine's Multiple Sclerosis

This book represents the fourth edition of McAlpine's venerable bible on multiple sclerosis and continues its fine tradition. Bryan Matthews' literary skills greatly enhance this very readable book, and his wry commentary brings a refreshing perspective to a field not unpopulated with misinformation and half-truths. The clinical sections are the main strength of the book, and Matthews has been ably assisted by C. Martyn with the epidemiological section. The work of the late Nigel Compston, an original author, is perpetuated by a contribution from his son Alastair, who has penned an informative and thoughtful section on immunology and genetics. A superb chapter on the pathologic aspects of multiple sclerosis comes from Ingrid Allen. Little fault is to be found in this book. Perhaps the epidemiology chapter could have catalogued the available information in a more critical manner. For example, instead of emphasizing the high concordance of population-based data on sex