subjects. Each volume is under the charge of an invited editor who selects his team of 4--6 experts. Each contribution is an authoritative, detailed and referenced examination of his topic, is clearly presented in an understandable manner and is practical, relevant and applic­ able to everyday clinical practice. The series is intended as a means of communication between researchers and practising clinicians. It is dedicated to gener­ alists who provide primary health care in general practice and to generalists providing secondary medical care in district vii viii Series Editors' Foreword general hospitals. Both are involved in applying good general practical clinical medicine for their patients, but can only succeed in a climate of constant review and examination.