Biomedical scientists are the foundation of modern healthcare, from cancer screening to diagnosing HIV, from blood transfusion for surgery to food poisoning and infection control. Without biomedical scientists, the diagnosis of disease, the evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment, and research into the causes and cures of disease would not be possible. The Fundamentals of Biomedical Science series is written to reflect the challenges of practicing biomedical science today. It draws together essential basic science with insights into laboratory practice to show how an understanding of the biology of disease is coupled to the analytical approaches that lead to diagnosis. Assuming only a minimum of prior knowledge, the series reviews the full range of disciplines to which a Biomedical Scientist may be exposed - from microbiology to cytopathology to transfusion science. Alongside volumes exploring specific biomedical themes and related laboratory diagnosis, an overarching Biomedical Science Practice volume gives a grounding in the professional and experimental skills with which any Biomedical Scientist must be equipped. The series * Understands the complex roles of Biomedical Scientists in the modern practice of medicine. * Understands the development needs of employers and the Profession. * Addresses the need for understanding of a range of fundamental sciences in the context of Biomedicine. * Places the theoretical aspects of Biomedical Science in their practical context. The series is developed in partnership with and endorsed by the Institute of Biomedical Science. See ibms.org for more information. Immunology gives the new biomedical scientist an insight into the function of the immune system, the front line of defence against pathological disease, and the diagnostic techniques used to identify associated malfunctions and disorders. By examining the key immunological principles and scientific basis of laboratory techniques with a focus on the biomedical scientist's role in the diagnostic laboratory, the reader is provided with everything needed to prepare for a specialist qualification in immunology. Current tests, the rationale behind their use, the technologies employed, and the quality measures applied are illustrated by specific case studies showing how the clinician interprets the results to help the patient. Online Resource Centre The Online Resource Centre to accompany Immunology features: For registered adopters of the book: * Figures from the book, available to download For students: * An interactive Digital Microscope, encouraging the exploration of tissue samples * Self-assessment modules to help you to check and reinforce understanding of the basic science introduced in each volume * Video podcasts including interviews with practicing biomedical scientists, and 'in the lab' footage showing biomedical science in practice