This book provides an up-to-date and comprehensive account of the human indigenous microbiota. In comparison to the wealth of material covering those micro-organims known to be pathogenic, this area of microbiology is relatively neglected. Included are useful sections on anatomy and physiology, antimicrobial defence systems and environmental determinants relevant to each body site covered. The author emphasizes that our increasing knowledge as regards the normal flora and its interaction with the host should help to provide an understanding of the important role these micro- organisms play in the maintenance of health.

The text draws upon a wide range of published material; however, there are limitations as regards information not yet available for certain body sites. The latest imaging and molecular (culture-independent) approaches, as depicted in the figures, provide the reader with valuable insights as to the location and diversity of our normal microflora.

This excellent, award-winning book (Medical Book Awards 2008), which benefits from very well designed coloured diagrams, should have a wide target audience spanning most areas of the health and related sciences. The hardback edition is reasonably priced and should have both personal and institutional appeal.