Physical Therapeutic Methods of Otolaryngology

391 theories regarding the mode of action of parathyroid hormone and its relationship to the action of vitamin D. The presentation is beguiling in its logic but far from convincing in its evidence. Regarding a theory of the mechanism of decalcification in hyperparathyroidism the startling statement is made that "new equilibria are established between the intra (inter?) cellular spaces and the blood, and between the blood and skeletal system," which would seem to account for "the flow of water and electrolytes from the tissues to the blood." If by such statements the author means to imply that the parathyroid hormone acts by subverting the physico-chemical laws governing the distribution of water and electrolytes in the body, then more facts are due even the least skeptical reader. The author acknowledges criticisms of his theory but the major ones which cannot be extended in this review have apparently escaped the critical faculty that is so agreeably conspicuous in other sections of the book. Otology in the Medical Department of the University of Illinois, and eleven contributors have produced a comprehensive and informative volume on the subject of physiotherapy in the treatment of diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. Books on physiotherapy have most often been written by physicians who are primarily physiotherapeutists, but here is a volume edited by specialists in otolaryngology, and they approach the subject from the point of those especially trained in otolaryngology and explain the value of physiotherapy in the treatment of diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. The authors have devoted considerable space to the discussion of physics, and present in concise and readable fashion much information which is not common to most physicians and which should certainly be the foundation for any attempt at the application of such method of treatment. Books on physiotherapy are characteristically filled with enthusiasm, and although it is difficult for this reviewer to accept all of the opinions voiced by the authors, they have frequently exhibited a conservatism which is commendable. It seems unfortunate that it is always necessary in books on this subject to republish so many illustrations of special patented apparatus, and include the name of the manufacturer, and the reader cannot help but feel, that in part at least, he is perusing the catalogs of these merchants. There is a complete bibliography at the end of each chapter which should prove to be valuable to those …