Reviewer: Michelle A. Josephson, MD (University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine)Description: This second edition of a practical guide to dialysis therapy focuses primarily on the management of dialysis patients. It also touches on the physiologic basis for dialytic therapies and the pathophysiology of relevant disease states.Purpose: The purpose is to provide simple and concise yet sophisticated information about dialysis and the management of dialysis patients. It meets these goals well. The book is an unequaled practical resource, and the second edition is updated and slightly more comprehensive than the first.Audience: Intended for internal medicine residents as well as nephrology residents, it is particularly useful as an introduction to dialysis for clinical nephrology fellows. It is also helpful for nurse practitioners working in the area.Features: The book's structure is an expanded outline format, making topics easily accessible. Simple black-and-white drawings and tables help illustrate the topics. The tables often include detailed information. References are presented as selected readings rather than comprehensive bibliographies.Assessment: This is a superb comprehensive introduction to dialysis management. The book is written in a concise, easy-to-read style and emphasizes management over theory. It is a pocket-sized book and best used as a quick reference guide. The book consolidates more essential dialysis information into one source than any other text. It is an unsurpassed resource of practical dialysis information that every dialysis practitioner should use.