The Washington Manual of Medical Therapeutics, Print + Online Thirty-Fourth

Book Preface

We have the pleasure of introducing the 34th edition of The Washington Manual of Medical Therapeutics. “The Manual,” as it has been labeled here at Washington University, has a proud tradition of being edited by the Internal Medicine Chief Residents. It was initially intended for use by local medical students and house staff but has now grown to be the best-selling medical text in the world. Beyond the increase in production, the Manual has grown in size and complexity, mirroring the practice of medicine. Wayland MacFarlane served as the initial editor in 1943, and numerous revisions have occurred in its 70 years of existence, moving from a short textbook to a portable reference. Today, we hope to continue that evolution in providing the rich text in both written and electronic form with availability on portable electronic devices.

We continue the virtues that made the work a success: a concise discussion of pathophysiology, an evidence-based presentation of current therapies, and a sensible format. Additionally, we have diligently updated the content to reflect ever-changing advances in medicine.

The Washington Manual of Medical Therapeutics has established a tradition of excellence that we aspire to preserve. Throughout this year, the medicine house staff, fellows, medical students, and attendings have inspired us. Their brilliance, commitment, and compassion are truly remarkable. We are honored that they turn to the Manual for guidance. We are deeply indebted for the substantial support and direction that Tom De Fer, the series editor, provided in the creation of this edition of the Manual. We also thank Katie Sharp and the editorial staff at Lippincott Williams & Wilkins for their assistance and patience with our busy schedules. We have had the honor and pleasure of serving as Chief Residents of Shatz- Strauss, Karl-Flance, Kipnis-Daughaday, North Campus firms, and The Primary Care Medicine Clinic in the Barnes-Jewish Center for Outpatient Health. Our Firm Chiefs, Megan Wren, William Clutter, Geoffrey Cislo, and E-P Barrette, have been instrumental over the course of the year, serving as mentors and role models. Our program director, Melvin Blanchard, has been a great help in the production of the Manual. Our Chairman of Medicine, Vicky Fraser, provided guidance and support in the creation of this text. We thank our families for their support and inspiration. To Ram Kumar, Malka, and Robbie; Patrick and Carla, TJ and Gabriel; Edward,Cecelia, and Karla; Steve, Karen, and Arun; Julio, Katty, and Jessi … our gratitude is beyond measure.