Clinical Physiology Made Ridiculously Simple

The chapters about fluid/electrolyte balance and immunology are incredible, clarifying concepts that I had struggled through previously. In addition, clinical correlations augment the discussion of normal physiology, keeping things real for those us getting early clinical exposure on the wards. The author implements useful drawings and flowcharts that further simplify complex material. For example, the immunology "cartoon" flowchart is perfect for understanding the central role of CD4 cells in binding to an MHC2, and depicting the numerous downstream events of adaptive immunity. In takes about an hour or two to plow through a chapter (and actually understand everything), but in the end, you have a great foundation that can be enhanced through lectures or PBL depending on your program.

Regarding the negative reviews below, what do these people expect from such a thin book? The author even admits in his preface that it should be used in conjunction with a text. I don't feel this book is intended for USMLE preparation or as a "study guide" for a medical school exam. These reviewers would be better served with a large spoon, a copy of Guyton, and a bib.

Clinical Phys made ridiculously simple dumbs down complex subjects and gives you a big picture understanding of how things work- this is the first book I've come across that makes learning physiology simple and efficient. In addition, I've found the Radiology, Anatomy and Microbiology books in this series to be particularly useful so far.


excellent resource   January 14, 2003
23 out of 23 found this review helpful

As with other books by Dr. Goldberg, this one is nothing short of miraculous! Through a systems-based approach, an otherwise complicated and tedious subject is transformed into an accesible and enjoyable voyage. Quite honestly, you should leave your standard thick physiology texts in the corner to use for curls or bench pressing... this book ABSOLUTELY encompasses the key knowledge of physiology in a fraction of the time. It seems like a gimmick, but it isn't. Having graduated from med school a few years ago, I can still say with authority that this book will serve you well into the future, not to mention on your next test, which will undoubtedly include mostly clinically oriented questions which, in turn, can ALL be answered after a careful and thoughtful review of this book. Don't waste any more time... read this one first! --This text refers to the Paperback edition.


Not worth the money   October 30, 2000
14 out of 19 found this review helpful

I agree with other reviewers of this ancillary text. It's too incomplete even to function as a quick study guide. Major topics are glossed over and vital areas are missed entirely. A vastly better choice is the STARS Physiology text. The Clinical Physiology Made Ridiculously Simple book is simple NOT as good as others in this series, especially the Microbiology text which is excellent. Med students - don't waste your money on this book.