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The third section deals with the interesting theme of prevention and rehabilitation of ischaemic heart dis- eases. It shows the far-reaching effects of a bio- behavioural view on the management of risk factors, which must be seen comprehensively as a constellation composed of psychosocial, psychophysiological and cardiac findings in addition to standard risk factors. The fourth section sheds light on the question whether, and to what extent, arrhythmias in patients with fear of the heart and panic disorders can be brought under control by behavioural strategies such as training in biofeedback.

The book has succeeded in emphasizing that be- havioural interventions must not be ignored in the treatment of cardiac diseases. It shows that behavioural management may often substitute for a pharmacologi- cal approach in motivated patients. Though the book is very compact and, therefore, not always easy to be read, the topic is most interesting and is presented in clearly arranged fashion.

2. Chirurgische UniversitIitskIinik Allgemeines Krankenhaus Vienna, Austria Brigitta Bunzel

Oxygen Radicals in the Pathophysiology of Heart Disease Editor: Pawan K. Singal

Kluwer Academic Publishers Boston/ Dordrecht/

Lancaster, 1988; 348 pp.; Df1170, $75, E45.75; ISBN O-89838-3757

The Role of Oxygen Radicals in Cardiovascular Diseases Editors: A. L’Abbate and F. Ursini Kluwer Academic Publishers Dordrecht/ Boston/ London, 286 pp.; $47; ISBN o-89838-407-9

Both of these books deal with an area of basic cardio- vascular research which has excited much interest in recent years. These volumes cover detailed methods and attempt to relate the results of such studies to possible clinical applications.

Chapters covering the nature of oxygen toxicity, its relationship to atheroma and pulmonary vascular reac- tivity, together with possible therapeutic strategies to limit reperfusion arrhythmias, are covered in substantial detail.

At first sight, the two volumes might be expected to have considerable overlap of authors and subject matter. Fortunately, this is not the case, and the two volumes are complementary. Together, they provide an illustra- tive and comprehensive overview of this field.

Sadly, the articles are based on symposiums held 2 and 3 years ago, respectively. This obviously limits their value. This is surprising since, in each case, the individ- ual manuscripts comprising the volume have varied fonts, suggesting the date of release could have been much earlier. Notwithstanding, they will both be a useful addition to any medical library supporting in- stitutions, where basic cardiovascular research is under- taken.

Wessex Cardiothoracic Centre Bernard Clarke Southampton General Hospital Senior Registrar Southampton, U.K. in Cardiology