Manipal Manual of Clinical Medicine

The Manipal Manual of Clinical Methods is a simple book in clinical methods for undergraduate and post graduate students of medicine. The approach to diagnosis is on the standard pattern of general examination followed by a chapter on each system. Surprisingly there is no chapter on history taking which should form the basis of physical examination. The physical signs are explained lucidly and often with illustrations, making them easy to understand. The interpretation of these signs and their differential diagnosis has been highlighted. The general lay out is reminiscent of what a student is often required to know for the examinations. This book priced at Rs.275/- is useful for revising the important points in physical diagnosis. It however, does not teach the students on how to communicate effectively with patients, nor does it emphasize on the importance of a systematic and orderly method of examination. Unlike the standard textbooks of clinical methods that attempt to make the student skillful in history taking, interpretation of physical signs and diagnosis of diseases; this book emphasizes on memorizing a large number of symptoms and signs and their differential diagnosis. It is a good buy for a quick revision before an exam, but not for those who want to learn the art and science of practice of medicine.