In the midst of the exciting advances that are being made in our understanding of multiple sclerosis, there is a need for an understanding of the practical aspects of MS. The authors, Burks and Johnson, have done an excellent job in chronicling MS from the history of MS to practical management of various symptoms. The sections are written by a virtual who’s who list of the MS field: Epidemiology by Kurtze, Diagnosis and Classification by Coyle and Symptom management by Schapiro. A unique aspect of this book is the consideration of topics not generally addressed in textbooks including sections such as Societal issues like managed care and Community issues such as Vocational issues.

The value in the textbook lies in the fact that it is well written and comprehensive: one stop shopping for a variety of topics related to MS. Excellent charts make the information easily accessible. As it was published in 2000 and in the face of the volumes of new information on MS that are being published daily, certain sections do need updating such as the diagnostic criteria for MS, therapy options and indications, and neuroimaging. This does not limit the utility of this book in the day-to-day practical management of MS.The book is a wonderful resource for Neurologist, physiatrists and allied health care professionals involved in the daily management of MS.

About the Reviewer:
Mary D. Hughes, MD
Dr. Hughes attended the University of Tennessee Medical School, completed her internship and neurology residency at Emory University and her Neurophysiology fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia. She has her board certification from American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Electrodiagnostic medicine. She has served as the Medical Director, of the Augusta MS Center since 2001. She has been active with the Consortium of MS Centers and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.