This is a substantial collection of papers reviewing the causal role of micro-organisms in the development of cancer. Experts in the field cover viruses involved via different mechanisms like carrying their own transforming genes (HTLV-1, HBV, HPVs), acting via insertional mutagenesis (retroviruses, HBV) or chromosomal translocation (EBV). It becomes clear that the oncogenic process is multifactorial: tumours like lymphoma and hepatocellular carcinoma may also occur without EBV or HBV/HCV infection. Viruses have developed ingenious ways to evade the host's immune recognition in the infected cell (HHV-8, EBV), and, in turn, tumours develop at higher frequency in the immunodeficient host. The influence of chronic infection and inflammation on oncogenesis is also widely discussed.

The volume is a treasure for reading. Most authors have made an effort to present up-to-date references (1998/99). The book is highly recommended to all microbiologists and clinicians with an interest in aspects of the molecular pathogenesis and rational therapy of cancer.