7
Owing to the extensive subject matter covered and to a successful tradition, the
style and organization of THE MANUAL have some unique characteristics. Read-
ers are urged to spend a few minutes reviewing the Guide for Readers (p. viii), the
Table of Contents at the beginning of each section (indicated by a thumb tab), and
the Index (p. 2717). Scrutiny of the arrangement of subject headings within each
section, of internal headings within a subject discussion, and of boldfaced terms in
the text will reveal a pattern of outlining intended to aid study of the text.
The foregoing description is a simplified review of the complex and arduous but
rewarding 5-year enterprise that culminated in the presentation of the 16th Edition
of THE MERCK MANUAL. The members of the Editorial Board, special consult-
ants, contributing authors, and in-house staff and their affiliations are listed on the
pages that follow. They deserve a degree of gratitude that cannot adequately be ex-
pressed here, but we know they will feel sufficiently rewarded if their efforts serve
your needs.
We hope this edition of THE MERCK MANUAL will be a welcome aid to you,
our readers—compatible with your needs and worthy of frequent use. Suggestions
for improvements will be warmly welcomed and carefully considered
Robert Berkow, M.D., Editor-in-Chief
MERCK RESEARCH LABORATORIES
West Point, Pa. 19486
Foreword
