Basic Medical Sciences for MRCP Part 1, 3e

Book Preface

Both MRCP (UK) parts 1 and 2 examinations require a sound knowledge and understanding of the basic sciences. This concise but comprehensive revision guide summarizes the core basic sciences relevant to the MRCP examination in eight chapters: Genetics and molecular medicine, Microbiology, Immunology, Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Cell biology and clinical chemistry, Statistics and epidemiology, and Clinical pharmacology. It is intended primarily for MRCP part 1 and 2 candidates, although those studying for other postgraduate examinations, such as the US Medical Licensing Examination (MLE) and PLAB, may also find it useful. Information is presented in the form of lists, tables, flow diagrams and simple illustrations, and each chapter is prefaced by a summary of the key topics covered to provide a useful framework for revision of the important concepts and facts. No book of this length covering such a wide area could hope to be comprehensive, and I have therefore concentrated on recurring examination themes, topical issues, and recent developments reported in the scientific and medical literature. When a particular topic is unfamiliar or a point needs further clarification, one of the many excellent basic science textbooks should be consulted. A number of practice Best of Five MCQs in the basic sciences for MRCP are also available.

In this third edition, all chapters have been extensively updated with new material to reflect recent developments, particularly in molecular medicine, immunology and microbiology. We have also improved the layout. Topics of particular relevance are highlighted in shaded boxes; and a second colour has been used to enhance the clarity of tables and figures.