Beginning medical students should find in this text an comprehensive introduction to cardiovascular disease. Because of its concise format, readers can complete the book in a month - the time generally allotted to cardiac pathophysiology courses. The content effectively bridges basic physiology and the practical aspects of caring for patients in the clinical setting. This edition incorporates new understanding of cardiovascular disease states, mechanisms of myocardial and endothelial function, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and valvular heart disease.