The "Butterworths Medical Dictionary" is a comprehensive medical reference book edited by Macdonald Critchley. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

• Comprehensive Coverage: The dictionary provides a wide range of medical terms, reflecting the expanding disciplines of the medical sciences. It includes over 8,000 new terms, making it a valuable resource for medical professionals and students.
• Historical Context: The second edition, published in 1978, was a significant update to the field of medical terminology. It covered a broad spectrum of medical knowledge, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and various medical specialties.

Plot Summary

Given that the book is a dictionary, it does not have a narrative plot. Instead, it is structured as a reference guide with entries on various medical terms. Each entry typically includes definitions, explanations, and sometimes etymologies of the terms.

Critical Reception

• Annals of Internal Medicine Review: The second edition of the dictionary received positive reviews. It was noted for its comprehensive coverage and detailed explanations of medical terms. The review highlighted its value as a reference tool for medical professionals and students.
• Cambridge University Press Review: A review published in the Cambridge University Press noted the dictionary's thoroughness and its role in medical history. The review praised the editor, MacDonald Critchley, for his meticulous work in compiling such a comprehensive resource.

Editions and Editors

• First Edition: The first edition of the dictionary was edited by Arthur Salusbury MacNalty, with contributions from Macdonald Critchley.
• Second Edition: The second edition, which is more commonly referenced, was edited by Macdonald Critchley. This edition was published in 1978 and reprinted in 1980.

Availability

The book is available in various formats, although some digital versions may not be accessible due to copyright restrictions. Physical copies can be found through bookstores and online marketplaces like AbeBooks.

In summary, "Butterworths Medical Dictionary" by Macdonald Critchley is a seminal work in the field of medical terminology, known for its comprehensive coverage and detailed explanations of medical terms. It has been widely praised for its utility in medical education and practice.