''The study of disease and its treatment is a life-long intellectual journey which has engaged some of humankind''s finest minds and kindest hearts. We are still on that fascinating voyage. Every journey begins with a single step, and that step is the purpose of this book. It is short enough to be read from cover to cover, re-read, studied and learnt. Those who do that should find that they understand much that they encounter in patients, whether in the wards, outpatients or in primary care. [It] should also ease the student clinician''s passage to more comprehensive texts, which can be intimidating in their volume and complexity, if there has been no prior introduction.'' - Hugh McGavock and Denis Johnston, in the Preface. The study of disease and its treatment is a life-long intellectual journey which has engaged some of humankind''s finest minds and kindest hearts. We, the authors, are still on that fascinating voyage. Every journey begins with a single step, and that step is the purpose of this book. It is short enough to be read from cover to cover, re-read, studied and learnt...This concise and practical introduction to the vast and complex subject of medical treatment is jargon-free and easy to read. It aids in the understanding of everyday situations on the wards, in out-patient clinics and in the primary care setting. The handy format is ideal as a ready reference along with its companion volume "How Drugs Work, Second Edition", by Hugh McGavock. It is highly recommended as an undergraduate textbook for students of nursing and medicine, especially those embarking on clinical training, and is also useful for Nurse Practitioners. Primary care nurses with diagnosis and treatment responsibilities will find the guidance invaluable.