This third edition of a reference for scientists and health care professionals has been extensively revised to incorporate the latest developments and relevant research. Coverage encompasses novel viruses, pathogenesis, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Chapters are in sections on viral syndromes and general principles, and categories of viral agents, divided into three subsections on DNA and RNA viruses and subviral agents. The first section addresses infections and syndromes related to particular organ systems, and explains the fundamentals of modern medical virology. It offers information on immune responses and vaccinology, diagnostics, antivirals, and gene therapy. The second section provides agent-specific chapters detailing the virology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and prevention and treatment of important viral pathogens. The art program offers color and b&w photos and illustrations, diagnostic images, and explanatory diagrams. Richman is affiliated with the Departments of Pathology and Medicine and the University of California-San Diego. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)