The emphasis in this book is on concepts, not equations, which is also mirrored in the USMLE exam. (I didn't have to calculate any equations during my USMLE step 1 exam three days ago: no Fick equation, no water balance, no mean arterial pressure, etc...)

The multiple choice questions at the end of each section and the comprehensive exam at the end of the book are also excellent and roughly reflect the content and style of the USMLE step 1 exam.


Great review for USMLE/COMLEX Step 1 and Beyond   November 3, 2000
12 out of 12 found this review helpful

I used this book to study for both the USMLE Step 1 and the COMLEX Step 1. The material covered, layout and concise format were invaluable, although the STARS Physiology book by the same author is better if you're not time crunched. The Board Review Series of board texts is excellent and the physiology version is one of the best. Worth the money and a great aide for 1st year students to use during physiology courses.


My new best friend!!   December 12, 2001
BJ Luria (Montreal, Quebec)
11 out of 11 found this review helpful

I give this book an enthusiastic two thumbs up!! If you're in medical school or studying physiology, I highly recommend it. I purchased it a few weeks before my renal/cardio/resp final and it proved to be a lifesaver in my studying for the exam. Although it cannot be used by itself as a textbook, it is perfect for its intended use as a review book. It complemented my lecture notes well and provided excellent practice tests at the end of each section. Although other reviewers seem to find fault in the acid/base chapter, I found that to be the most useful. When I pulled the book out during a small group discussion on renal physiology, my classmates were awed by the amount of information contained in such a compact package. Costanzo lays out all the information you need to know without the in-depth description that makes textbooks so unreadable. I have enjoyed using this book to study for my exams, and I look forward to using it to study for the USMLE.


A must have resource for all medical students!   August 15, 1999
20 out of 23 found this review helpful

This book is an excellent resource for persons both entering their first year course in Medical Physiology and for those second-year medical students preparing for USMLE Step 1. A concise, yet detailed text which emphasizes quite clearly the basic principles of Physiology. I am lucky to have had the author, Dr. Costanzo, as a professor and my current advisor. However, having her review text is the next big thing! Detailed pictures and powerful tables and diagrams handsomely supplement her student-oriented presentation style of information. A particularly well written section concerning Renal Acid-Base Physiology, which is Dr. Costanzo's specialty. Any medical student or person taking a Physiology course will not lose a dime by purchasing this book... It is well worth it, believe me! :)