Essentials of Tuberculosis in Children. 3rd edition. Vimlesh Seth, SK Kabra New Delhi: Jaypee; 2006. Pages: 703; Price: Rs 595.00

This is a treatise on childhood tuberculosis, envisioned, orchestrated, and edited by two very able and experienced teachers. This edition is enlarged, comprehensive and updated. There are 39 contributors who have penned an equal number of chapters under 7 Sections on historical aspects, epidemiology, microbiology, clinical spectrum, diagnostic aspects, treatment strategies, and prevention and control of tuberculosis in children.

The newer edition includes the advances made in the understanding of the immunology of tuberculosis, myco-bacteriological techniques and other diagnostic tests. Newer tests like Fast plaque, Elispot, Quantiferon Gold test, and newer radio-imaging techniques etc. which have started crossing from the realm of the research laboratories to the daily practice.

Most books on tuberculosis have a natural tilt towards the pulmonary disease. The current book welcomingly covers the relevant issues about the extra-pulmonary form of the disease as well. The editors have done a good job in ensuring a streamlined and uniform message on the management of TB unlike the past editions where the management for the extra-pulmonary forms was not in consonance with the management detailed elsewhere. The control of TB in the country requires better understanding and dissemination of the public health policies in this regard. The inclusion of the latest consensus guidelines on the management of pediatric tuberculosis (IAP-RNTCP) is likely to clear the related controversies.

Expectedly a book detailing all aspects of childhood TB is going to be very bulky. However, do not feel intimidated by the size as it has well laid out sections catering to the interest of a very varied audience. It offers a good resource for the practicing pediatrician, the postgraduates, and the faculty. However, the book falls short of expectations at times, particularly on account of lack of some professional editing to avoid unnecessary repetition. The tenor of the book also swings between a monograph and a textbook.

The book scores well on production, color, paper, and format. Photographs are clearly printed. Additionally, the lucid manner of writing makes it a far better book than the previous editions.