The "Oxford Textbook of Palliative Medicine" is a comprehensive and scientific text on the rapidly developing speciality of care for the dying. The text sets out to consider every aspect of terminal care and considers the range of needs of the patient and the patient's family throughout. Although based on practice in the English-speaking countries, the relevance of palliative care to the developing world is stressed. Introductory chapters consider the challenge presented by palliative medicine, and discusses the historical development and future of the speciality, cultural aspects of dying, models of care provision, and aspects of communication with patients. Following sections examine the scientific principles uderlying the subject, and offer a review of the current status of research in the field. Comprehensive and up-to-date guidance is given on the management of pain and other problems in the dying, with recommendations made on the basis of the available literature. As well as emphasizing the emotional, social and psychological needs of the dying, the book considers the needs of the family and discusses bereavement, support and involvement of relatives and domiciliary care. Further subjects covered include ethical aspects of care, rehabilitation, and the education and training of health professionals. Specific chapters are devoted to children and to those dying of AIDS.