Clinical Genetics

Book excerpt: With the advent of genetic engineering and mapping of the human genome, public awareness concerning the contributions that genetic disorders make to illness or death has increased significantly. The fields of human and medical genetics have continued to expand and offer new ways of understanding, preventing, and managing patients with genetic disorders. At the core of the genetic approach are the ideas of anticipation and prevention, which are essential for modern medical practice. Clinical Genetics: A Short Course explains the importance of being able to anticipate disease based on individual characteristics or a family history, and then providing the necessary measures to forestall further complications. Each informative chapter commences with a case presentation and an explanation of medical terms. As the book progresses and new concepts are introduced, each case is updated. Clinical Genetics clarifies that, although individual genetic disease may be rare, it is an inescapable part of medicine. Text contains: * Both basic principles and differential diagnosis and management * Case-oriented problems, including answers and solutions * Over 300 illustrations to clarify clinical cases * Actual patient material * Glossary of genetic and medical terminology Clinical Genetics: A Short Course emphasizes clinical, rather than traditional human genetics, and is a vital resource for medical, clinical, and human geneticists, as well as other health care professionals.