THE ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID SYNDROME. II: AUTOIMMUNE

from the study of monoclonal aPL and animal models of the APS are summarized separately, as are the roles of cytokines and T cells in APS pathogenesis. Various clinical manifestations of the APS are described in the third section, including rare complications such as sensorineural hearing loss. The evidence that many infectious diseases and drugs lead to aPL formation is reviewed, along with their possible roles in pathogenesis of APS. The therapy section addresses various controversial questions. How long and at what intensity should anticoagulation therapy be continued in a patient with vascular thrombosis? Should aspirin, heparin or both be used to treat APS patients with pregnancy loss? Clinical data are critically appraised and practical conclusions reached. Complementing these reviews is a problem-based approach to the management of difficult aspects of the APS, illustrated by brief case histories. This is followed by a synopsis of relevant literature and an opinion from an expert panel. However, a clear consensus could not be reached in all cases. The final section helpfully lists the best APS internet sites for both doctors and patients and gives a lay description of the APS. Although this is written for patients, clinicians may find it useful when explaining the disease to their patients. My criticisms of this book are few and mostly limited to those of style and presentation. Some chapters would benefit from greater use of figures and tables to illustrate certain points, and colour illustrations. In conclusion, I think this book is well written and covers all aspects of clinical and laboratory research into the pathogenesis, presentation and therapy of the APS. I recommend this book highly to anyone carrying out research in this field anduor treating patients with this disease.