Allergic contact dermatitis: chemical and metabolic mechanisms

Smith, C K & Hotchkiss, S A M . Allergic contact dermatitis: chemical and metabolic mechanisms . London and New York : Taylor and Francis 2001 . ISBN 0-415-25047-1 . 310 pp. £70 . (Distributed in UK by ITPS, Cheriton House, North Way, Andover, Hants SP10 5BE.) This is a well-written monograph which concentrates on the chemistry of contact dermatitis. The chapter on skin absorption of chemical allergens is particularly well-designed and written. Chemical mechanisms are clearly illustrated at all stages. I was less clear what the few colour figures added to the book. I can recommend it to all students of the subject seeking its better chemical understanding. John P. McFadden