The Washington Manual of Medical Therapeutics

Book Preface

It is our distinct pleasure to introduce the 35th edition of The Washington Manual® of Medical Therapeutics. “The Manual,” as it is known here at Washington University, has a proud tradition of being edited by the Internal Medicine Chief Residents. Since its inception as a simple handbook for local medical students and house staff, the Manual has grown to be one of the best-selling medical texts in the world. Concurrently, the Manual has grown in size and complexity, mirroring the practice of medicine.

From the first edition edited by Wayland MacFarlane in 1943, numerous revisions have occurred, transforming the Manual from a short textbook to a portable reference, and now a text with both written and electronic forms with availability on portable electronic devices. Throughout the many revisions, however, the editors have sought to retain the virtues that made the work a success from the start: a concise discussion of pathophysiology, an evidence-based presentation of current therapies, and a sensible format. Additionally, with each new edition, the content is carefully updated to reflect the ever-changing advances in medical technology and therapeutics.

The Washington Manual® of Medical Therapeutics has established a tradition of excellence that we aspire to preserve. No discussion of the Manual would be complete without mention of the fantastic Washington University medicine house staff, fellows, medical students, and attendings with whom we work daily. Their brilliance, compassion, and dedication are truly remarkable and inspiring. We are honored that they turn to the Manual for guidance. We are deeply indebted for the substantial support and direction that Dr. Tom De Fer, the series editor, provided in the creation of this edition of the Manual. We also sincerely thank Katie Sharp and the editorial staff at Wolters Kluwer 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, and North Campus firms, and the Primary Care Medicine Clinic in the Barnes-Jewish Center for Outpatient Health. Our firm chiefs, Drs. Megan Wren, Emily Fondahn, Geoffrey Cislo, and E.-P. Barrette, have been instrumental over the course of the year, serving as mentors and role models. Our program director, Dr. Melvin Blanchard, provided guidance and support in the production of the Manual. Our Chairman of Medicine, Dr. Vicky Fraser, served as an outstanding role model and provided support in the creation of this text. We thank our families for their support, patience, and inspiration. To Muffie, Rob, Charlotte, and Doug; the whole Gdowski family but especially Henry; Carolyn, John, and Stanley; Caroline, Priya, Kolari, and Shashi; and the entire Ramgopal and Martin families—our gratitude is beyond measure.

Pavan Bhat, MD
Alexandra Dretler, MD
Mark Gdowski, MD
Rajeev Ramgopal, MD
Dominique Williams, MD