Veterinary immunology. 9th edn. Edited by IR Tizard . Elsevier, St Louis, 2013. 554 pages. Price A$92.99. ISBN 978 1 45570 362 3.

The ninth edition of Veterinary immunology is a comprehensive and in-depth yet concise text on the immunology of domestic (and some non-domestic) species, designed for veterinary students and practitioners. This latest edition contains several new chapters, examining topics such as the interactions between the immune system and commensal microbes, and the content has been updated to reflect advances in many areas including innate immunity, the role of adipose tissue in immunity, genomics and molecular diagnostics.

Recognising the breadth and complexity of the subject area, the author's aim was to provide an overview of immunology, which would enable readers to develop a broad understanding of basic immunological principles. The chapters are well organised and, reflecting the interconnectedness of immune responses, do not need to be read sequentially. Key points are summarised at the beginning of each chapter, which is useful for revision. The text is well written and supported by readily comprehensible colour diagrams and flowcharts, making Veterinary immunology an effective learning resource.

Throughout Veterinary immunology, there are numerous brief clinical examples to highlight the relevance of immunological principles to clinical practice, including a discussion of devil facial tumour disease. This is valuable in engaging students for whom preclinical studies such as immunology often seem distinct from clinical studies. Also particularly useful for students is the linking of the text to free online resources such as multiple choice questions. Exploration of vaccines and their usage, to which two chapters are devoted, allows both practitioners and students to gain greater immunological perspectives of this topic.

Overall, Veterinary immunology is an excellent textbook and is recommended for students and practitioners alike.

• creators>L Kopecny