BOOK
The International Society of Dermatopathology. A richly illustrated history on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of its founding Wolfgang Weyers, MD, New York, 1999, Ardor Scribendi. 109 pages. $30.00. This is a wonderful and charming, and beautifully produced book. Weyers, an accomplished and serious historian, has written an insightful and instructive text. The many pictures and illustrations are thoroughly enjoyable, but the figure not to be missed is No. 48: Bernie (with inspiration from Elvis), conducting a brass band at the Hofbra¨uhaus in Munich, Germany, in 1978. One of the cliche´d justifications for the study of history is that those who don’t know it are condemned to repeat it; this book made me wish I could. Jeffrey D. Bernhard, MD Editor doi:10.1067/S0190-9622(03)00787-4
Cosmetic dermatology: Principles and practice Leslie Baumann, New York, McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. 226 pages. $149.00. ISBN: 0-07-136281-9. As the demand for cosmetic procedures continues to grow, it is necessary for dermatologists to be well-informed on the subject of cosmetic dermatology so they can help their patients through the quagmire of information disseminated on the Internet and lay press. Perhaps more than ever, patients are confused about their skin care and how to maintain a youthful and healthy appearance. Dr Baumann has written a book that is easy to read and covers the basics that any dermatologist beginning to delve into the field needs to know. The first portion of the textbook reviews the basic science of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and hair. She nicely reviews the more common factors that contribute to aging of the skin including UV radiation, cigarettes, and hormones. The latter is an especially hot topic for many women today who are
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REVIEWS
trying to weigh the pros and cons of hormone replacement. Perhaps the best section of the book reviews the various products that are touted to reduce the progression and improve the process of skin aging. The more common agents include sunscreens, retinoids, moisturizers, depigmenting agents, and antioxidants. Sunscreens may be one of the most important tools to prevent the appearance of aging skin and the chapter covering these products is thorough and comprehensive. The usefulness of antioxidants in the prevention and treatment of skin aging is of great interest to the scientific and lay communities, and Dr Baumann has pulled together the theory and science of vitamin E, coenzyme Q, vitamin C, and others. The book has chapters reviewing the role of alternative medicine, and miscellaneous products and procedures such as cellulite creams, endermologie, facial exercise regimens, and oxygen therapy. Any dermatologist with a cosmetic practice has been faced with questions from their patients on the science and potential usefulness of these modalities. Dr Baumann writes that it is her practice to recommend Arnica montana after collagen, fat transfer, and liposuction procedures. Soft tissue augmentation, chemical peels, and the cosmetic use of botulinum toxin are covered, as are techniques for hair removal. The chemical peel chapter nicely outlines the various types and brands of chemicals available including the costs to the practitioner. One subject frequently neglected but reviewed here is the methodologies used to measure treatment outcomes and effectiveness. This book is written for the physician with an interest in the aesthetic field of cosmetic dermatology and those who simply want to better guide their patients in their pursuits to maintain a youthful and healthy appearance. The language and style is such that it is easy to read and comprehend. The principles reviewed can be applied to patient care at all levels. Dee Anna Glaser, MD St Louis, Missouri doi:10.1067/S0190-9622(03)01580-9
SEPTEMBER 2003