From alchemy to AIDS, and from snakebite to ultrasound, this wide-ranging reference travels both the main avenues and fascinating byways of medicine. Deftly written articles, penned by some 200 respected scholars, examine everything of importance -- related sciences (such as biochemistry and cell biology), important institutions (medical colleges, societies, major hospitals, and libraries), modern medical techniques (such as magnetic resonance imaging), even the darker side of medicine, including fraud and misconduct in medical research, and medical cults and quackery. There are major entries on each of the branches of medicine, such as cardiology, pediatrics, and general surgery, describing what they encompass, their historical background, variations in international practice, and recent advances. And there are shorter entries that illuminate a comprehensive selection of medical terms. The volume also features a micropedia containing brief, insightful accounts of the lives and achievements of many fascinating and famous historical and contemporary medical personalities. And the Companion includes numerous articles that examine the often-close links between medicine and art, music, poetry, and dance.

This book is the perfect companion for everyone working in medicine or related fields, and everyone interested in the medical arts.