Preface

This, the 6th edition of Fishman's Pulmonary Diseases and Disorders, represents a major update of the prior edition. The book continues to incorporate broad and authoritative discussions of topics relevant to pulmonary physicians and those interested in sleep medicine and associated disorders; it also includes core topics of importance to the practice of critical care medicine. As in previous editions, the 6th relies heavily upon expert presentations of many basic science areas that, in the Editors' opinions, constitute an important substrate for clinically based discussions. The clinical sections of the book have been extensively revamped and expanded.

Notable content additions include important information on the respiratory effects of vaping, more detailed discussion of the idiopathic interstitial pneumonitides, an expanded presentation on the imaging and work-up of lung nodules, consideration of immunotherapy in the treatment of lung cancer, information on COVID-19-related lung disease and its management, and comprehensive discussion of noninvasive ventilation, including its use in ambulatory and ICU settings. In addition, new chapters on cystic lung disease, lung cancer screening, the lung microbiome, developmental lung disorders, nocardiosis and actinomycosis, and application of ECMO have been included. The work is extensively referenced, with more than 22,000 citations.

Remarkably, all the material presented was prepared during an unprecedented global pandemic caused by the coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. At the time of the 6th edition's publication, more than 6.3 million deaths due to COVID-19 had been reported worldwide. The impact that the pandemic has had on all aspects of society, including health care, has been extraordinary. The fact that this edition was orchestrated during a time when those most engaged in its preparation were also heavily involved in caring for patients with corona-virus-related respiratory disease is noteworthy. The dedication of the scientists and clinicians globally who contributed to the volume during this time is duly recognized and greatly appreciated. In fact, the 6th edition is the result of contributions from 328 authors from many countries around the world, reflecting expertise that is truly global in nature; 141 are new to the publication.

Illustrations remain a pivotal component of the book, with nearly 2500 included in the book and online on AccessMedicine.com.

Preparation of this edition required the work of many. The Editors wish to express their sincere gratitude to the clinicians and scientists who contributed content. They are among the leading authorities on the topics on which they have written. The Editorial group itself includes three new members. Each has stepped up to the challenge and has invested considerable time and energy in helping to prepare the work. On a personal note, I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to all my Editor colleagues who collaborated in the book's development.

Finally, the Editors wish to thank key individuals on the McGraw-Hill staff who played important roles during the project, including Jason Malley, Executive Editor, Medical Publishing; Christie Naglieri, Senior Project Development Editor; and Leah Carton, Associate Editor.