Clinical Neurology, Seventh Edition
Clinical Neurology, Seventh Edition
ISBN: 0071546448
No other book makes the link between basic neuroscience and current approaches in diagnosis and treatment easier to understand than Clinical Neurology. Distinguished by its practice-oriented approach to neurology based on the patients’ presenting symptoms, this classic has been updated and revised to make it even more clinically-relevant and enjoyable to read
Our Review
Given this book by a classmate and I have to say not very impressed. This book has all the relevant information I felt that it was not organized in a way that is easily understandable. There are a significant amount of abbreviations that I felt were unneeded. The book is priced in the range of most review books but I believe that case studies or other texts are better examples of review books that can offer better results to the average student.
On a scale of 1-10. 10 being highest………………………………………………………………………………………………………6
Neuroanatomy Through Clinical Cases
Neuroanatomy Through Clinical Cases
ISBN: 0878930604
Neuroanatomy through Clinical Cases brings a pioneering interactive approach to the teaching of neuroanatomy, using over 100 actual Clinical Cases and high-quality radiologic images to bring the subject to life. This approach allows students to appreciate the clinical relevance of structural details as they are being learned, and to integrate knowledge of disparate functional systems, since a single lesion may affect several different neural structures and pathways.
Most of the book comprises chapters that explain the major neuroanatomical systems. Each chapter first presents background material including an overview of relevant neuroanatomical structures and pathways, and a brief discussion of related clinical disorders. The second half of each chapter is devoted to clinical cases. The cases begin with a narrative of how the patient developed symptoms, and what deficits were found upon neurological examination. Boldface type highlights important symptoms and signs. A series of questions challenges the reader to deduce the neuroanatomical location of the patient’s lesion, and the diagnosis. Discussion and answers follow, and an epilogue reveals the actual outcome.
One of the book’s most innovative features is the inclusion of CT and MRI scans that depict each patient’s lesion. These radiographs help the reader develop skills in interpreting the same kinds of diagnostic images employed in clinical practice.
The book is intended primarily for first- or second-year medical students enrolled in a basic neuroanatomy, neurobiology or neuroscience course. It is also a valuable resource for advanced medical students and residents, as well as students of other health professions, notably physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, dentistry, speech therapy, and neuropsychology.
Source: Sinauer Associates Publishing
Our Review
This is definitely the book I reccomend for neuroscience courses. It had great mnemonics, clear pictures of the tracts, and several clinical cases for each chapter. It mentioned topics like blobs/interblobs that weren’t mentioned in any other books, including BRS and Purves. Several images were even used during lecture by my professors.
I’ve read (or attempted to read) many neuroanatomy books. I’ve tried pocket guides, ridiculously simple books, terribly boring textbooks, etc. NONE come close to this book.
You are introduced to a specific section of anatomy with EXCELLENT illustrations and explanations, and then immediately following, you are given a series of clinical cases. The cases are quite simply, stunning. Patient presentation, what clues from history and physical are IMPORTANT, and then correct diagnosis with treatment. Each case is packed with CLINICAL INFORMATION and CT’s/MRI’s for your review.
I loved the section on weakness. Illustrated and explained like I’ve never seen before. How to narrow down where the lesion can be found, why some areas are ruled out, common causes for the lesion, and a CLEAR ILLUSTRATION reinforcing the text. Brilliant.
This is easily the best neuroanatomy text and more than that, it’s the best introduction to clinical NEUROLOGY.
If you are taking neuroanatomy, use this instead of your stupid text. Your peers will be amazed at your grasp of the info they are struggling with. If you are an intern before neuro residency, read this during your intern year. If you are a neuro resident, use this for reinforcing the underlying anatomy for the path you’ve seen during the day.
On a scale of 1-10. 10 being best…………………………………………………………………………………………………………10
Neurology Board Review: An Illustrated Study Guide
Neurology Board Review: An Illustrated Study Guide
ISBN: 0849337917
Preparing the reader for the written portion of the Neurology Board examination and the Residency In-Service Training Examination (RITE) of the American Academy of Neurology, this reference provides a comprehensive review of the most critical topics in neurology. With the abundance of neuropathology and neuroimaging figures and neuroanatomy and neurophysiology illustrations, readers will not need to refer to multiple sources for a comprehensive review to prepare for the Neurology Boards and in-service examination.
Source: Informa HealthCare Publishing
Our Review
This book has so many great points. I will start out with that this is not a quick read. This is a very involved book. Do not get this book 1 week before your exam. I would say it is top 3 neuro books out there. This is a textbook and not a review book.
The images and slides in this book are fantastic. The diagrams are very clear. An added plus are the pathology slides that assist greatly with comprehension. The questions in this book I felt are pretty good.
I liked this text a lot. It is on the expensive side but the information is relevant through your four years of med school and possibly beyond. It is not a quick read but if you put time into studying this book I believe this book will prepare you well for your exams.
On a scale of 1-10. 10 being best………………………………………………………………………………………………………..91/2
Case Files Neurology
Case Files Neurology
ISBN: 0071482873
You need exposure to cases to pass the USMLE and shelf exams and that’s exactly what this innovative resource offers. Written by experienced educators, Case Files: Neurologyhelps you think through diagnosis and managemenet when confronting neurological clinical problems. 53 high-yield clinical cases focus on the core competencies for the neurology clerkship. Each case includes an extended discussion, definitions of key terms, clinical pearls, and USMLE-format review questions. It’s an interactive learning system that helps you learn instead of just memorize.
Source: McGraw-Hill Publishing
Our Review
I am a fan of the Case File books and the same can be said for this edition of neurology. I do have some friends that are not fans of this particular text but I can seem to see their point. I found that the cases were relevant and helpful. I do not believe that any one text should be your study material for tests so maybe that is their problem.
I do not believe that the cases were overly easy. I study a lot of material and yes I found the cases easy but no more easier than any of the other cases in other specialties. I am not looking to be stumped rather be able to find the relevant clues in the passage to make the correct diagnosis.
I liked the book, found it interesting and would recommend it.
On a scale of 1-10. 10 being best………………………………………………………………………………………………………81/2
The Massachusetts General Hospital Handbook of Neurology
The Massachusetts General Hospital Handbook of Neurology
ISBN: 0781751373
Now in its revised, updated Second Edition, this pocket-sized handbook is a practical quick-reference guide to the diagnosis and management of neurologic diseases. It presents specific management recommendations in a succinct outline format and includes protocols, step-by-step tests and procedures, and treatment algorithms. This handbook is unique in its inclusion of material from related disciplines such as general medicine, cardiology, psychiatry, neurosurgery, neuroanatomy, and radiology. The authors offer guidance in using contemporary neuroimaging techniques in diagnosis.
Source: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
Our Review
This is a very resident friendly nook. I list it a a first year because so much of what is in here is on the step 1 exam. Once you buy this book you will use it in year 2,3, and 4. There is a tremendous amount of information packed into this little book. I wish I had it my first year.
So for you first years this book is a great resource to review basix concepts, for those in the wards you will pick up alot of good info out of this.
On a scale of 1-10. 10 being the best…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….10
The Clinical Smart Book
The Clinical Smart Book
ISBN: 0979407109
This book is a clinical guide to help medical students transition from the basic sciences to clinical medicine. It was initially written as individual sections at the end of each medical school clerkship with the sole purpose of consolidating salient information into smart cards . These cards focus on the clinical aspects of each rotation, which if mastered early in the rotation help the student to shine in the clerkship. This information is not factual information which helps on the final written exam. These smart cards act like checklists, helping to the student to focus on the important points. The main focus of the book is two fold. The first half consists of sections for each clerkship, focusing on the key history and physical points of focus to think about just before entering the patient s room, or the points of focus in a progress note for a patient. The second half of the book focuses on rudimentary skills which need to be mastered such as EKGs, acid-base, intensive care notes (and presenting these patients), ventilators, patient data organization techniques and medical acronyms and abbreviations. These tools, coupled with factual knowledge from the basic sciences, are the basis of the student s clinical grade. These checklists are consolidated into a book format, which fits nicely in your pocket and can be pulled out at a moments notice at bedside. The intent of the book was to exclude all the inconsequential information (from the medical student s perspective). By eliminating the fluff, the smart cards focus on the really important basic concepts. These skills/tools lay the foundation of understanding from which to build clinical knowledge. Thus by understanding the basics early in the rotation, the student will get more out of the clinical rotations by quickly grasping the concepts outlined in the book. Starting a rotation already knowing the key clinical parameters, makes the student stand out and more importantly facilitates learning. While this was written for medical students, physician assistants and nursing students would also benefit from the book’s content. Enjoy!
Source: The Raspberry Publishing Company
Our Review
I borrowed this book from a friend who was using it and swore by it. I read through it and liked it a lot. But to be clear this book is a list of things to include in write-ups. Not that this is a bad thing. I absolutely learned a lot from the points they made. It is a worth while book and may save you from a “rookie mistake”. It is inexpensive and worth your time.
On a scale of 1-10. 10 being best……………………………………………………………………………………………………..9
250 Biggest Mistakes 3rd Year Medical Students Make And How to Avoid Them
250 Biggest Mistakes 3rd Year Medical Students Make And How to Avoid Them
ISBN: 0972556168
Every year, there are students who consistently perform at a high level during their third year of medical school. What enables these students to succeed? What limits the success of their colleagues? Is there something that sets these top performers apart from the rest?
This book was written with the express intent of answering these questions. Compiled from discussions with hundreds of faculty, residents, and students, along with extensive review of the scientific literature on the subject of medical education, you will find this book to be an invaluable resource.
Inside, find the answers to the following questions -
*Residents and attending physicians use different criteria to evaluate students. What criteria do they value more highly?
*What type of student do attending physicians enjoy?
*A study looking at “difficult” students, from the standpoint of attending physicians, found that the shy, or nonassertive student, was one of three major problem types. What are the other major problem types?
*The literature has shown that students are rarely observed performing a history and physical. That being the case, how do attending physicians evaluate a student’s ability to perform this task?
*The clinical evaluation of students during rotations is far from perfect. Evaluators can be affected by a variety of factors, some of which may lead to ratings that are lower than the student deserves. What are these factors and what can you, as a student, do to increase the chances that you are evaluated fairly?
*Students are not able to do their best work until they become comfortable in their new rotation. What can you do to become more comfortable sooner rather than later?
*Personality factors have been shown in several studies to impact a student’s evaluation. in one study, an important identifiable personality factor was identified that impacted evaluations. What was this factor?
*Conflict is a major issue for students in the clinical years. One study found that conflict situations were common, occurring on average every other day. What is the best way to handle conflict?
*Letters of recommendation are a key component of the residency application. When should you ask faculty members for a letter?
Featuring discussion of these issues and more, this book will provide you with essential insights and tools into mastering clinical rotation.
Source: MD2B Publishing
Our Review
I got this book as a present from an upperclassman who said it was really helpful to him. I took it home a read it in one day. It is a quick read a offers a lot of good advice. For instance, I also have a new appreciation for how important write-ups and oral case presentations are. The authors presented data showing that many attendings never see a student actually perform a history and physical, and that’s why much of your grade is based on the write-up and how you present the case.
A second item I found useful was a lot of information on presenting new patients. I think without these tips I would have ended up making those exact mistakes in my presentations.
This book will not teach you anything that will help you cure cancer, rather it will teach you professionalism and help you gain the respect from attendings. It teaches common sense stuff that is only common sense after you read it. Think of it as a book on protocall and manners that are expected of the upcoming med student.
Quick read and worth an evening.
On a scale of 1-10. 10 being best…………………………………………………………………………………………………10
How to be a Truly Excellent Junior Medical Student
How to be a Truly Excellent Junior Medical Student
ISBN: 1882742125
This is the essential guide for the third-year medical student newly embarking upon ward rotations! It’s a strange new world out there, and this masterful handbook guides these oft-unprepared students through the maze of stressful duties and bizarre expectations that will be thrust upon them! How to be a Truly Excellent Junior Medical Student is written with cleverness, insight and wit, and is designed to give students the perspective they need to gain the most from their clinical training.
Source: Jones & Bartlett Publishers
Our Review
I got this book from a professor with the note “all you are going to need to know to stay out of trouble”. By god he was right. This little book gave me more info in its 124 pages than I got from 6 months on rounds. This book goes into the details on the role of each member, and how things are done in terms of writing notes, ordering tests, and performing procedures.
Furthermore, the guidance of this book is the help needed for a confused 3rd year. By the time I was starting 3rd year rotations I was sure I could kill someone and not know how I did it.
A must read just before you start 3rd year, makes a good gift to someone starting 3rd year also.
On a scale of 1-10. 10 being best………………………………………………………………………………………………………10
First Aid for the USMLE Step 3, Second Edition
First Aid for the USMLE Step 3, Second Edition
ISBN: 0071487964
Our Review
With this book there were several things that highlight the exceptional job First Aid has done throughout their series. In this book I particularly liked the 100 mini cases that have differentials and lab tests that are useful for the CCS cases. The questions as usual are great. The toughest part about step 3 is finding time to study for it while working. This book did not steer me wrong and it works great for those “squeezed in” study brakes.
Good luck on Step 3!
On a scale of 1-10. 10 being best………………………………………………………………………………………………………9
First Aid Cases for the USMLE Step 1: Second Edition
First Aid Cases for the USMLE Step 1: Second Edition
ISBN: 007160135X
First Aid™ Cases for the USMLE Step 1 features 400 well-illustrated cases to help you relate basic science concepts to clinical situations. Each case includes drawings or clinical images with Q&As that reinforce key concepts. The content is keyed to First Aid for the® USMLE Step 1 to help you create the ultimate study package
Source: McGraw-Hill Publishing
Our Review
What else can be said other than First Aid writes a great series. This book is no exception from the rest. This book has extensive patient notes and is organized in an easy to follow format. No single book will prepare you for the step 1 exam but this is defiantly a book to have in your arsenal. I can honestly say that this book will help you pass the step 1. The cases are real world applicable and the question were straight to the point.
Some people have issues with this particular book but I found no problems. If you read a lot of my reviews you will know I am a huge fan of questions. I think the more the better your chance of doing well on an exam. If you give me the same subject matter in three different questions I can know look at that subject mater in three different ways. I believe this helps me taking the board and shelf exams. If you understand it the information from different angles it makes you able to handle any question the USMLE can throw at you.
I think a lot of people throw books under the bus because they can only look at subject matter the way the learned it. You have to be able to look at it from every angle to be successful.
Good book, Try it, and Good Luck.
On a scale of 1 to 10. 10 being best……………………………………………………………………………………………………9
