Diseases of the hair and scalp

The book "Diseases of the Hair and Scalp" by Arthur Rook and Rodney Dawber, published in 1982, is a comprehensive and indispensable reference text on hair and scalp problems, serving as a valuable resource for dermatologists, academicians, and students. The 571-page book covers a wide range of topics including the embryology and physiology of hair, hair shaft and hair loss problems, diseases and tumors of the scalp, hirsutism, hypertrichosis, hair cosmetics, and investigative techniques, among others. It is well-illustrated with clinical photographs, photomicrographs, and drawings, and features an extensive bibliography of the world literature up to 1981. The book has been praised for its thoroughness and clarity, although it does have some omissions and areas that could be improved in future editions, such as the inclusion of biotin-responsive alopecia, clarification on the distinction between pili torti and monilethrix, and more detailed discussion on lupus erythematosus and its treatment. The review suggests that the book greatly enriches clinical skills and provides a thorough review of the literature, making it a significant contribution to the field.