In the early 1980s, two junior doctors from Oxford noted down all the medical information they found valuable to keep. As medical students they learned most not from organised lecturers but from clinical sessions - on the ward and in clinic. Useful notes were written on scraps of paper, and it was from this that the original Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine was born. No other book has entered the hearts, minds and pockets of so many doctors and medical students the world over. Now in its 7th edition, the main features and essence of the original edition remain unchanged. Developed over 21 years, the Handbook encompasses the experience, knowledge and wisdom of more than 10 different authors. With its characteristic combination of incisive guidance, wit, a lucid style, and memorable epigrams, it continues to be the leading pocket reference of clinical medicine. The 7th edition is fully equipped for the modern doctor with a brand new design with integrated full-colour pictures on common problems such as rashes, scars and jaundice. There is a new chapter on radiology, new information on consent and how to handle common calls, and greater coverage of medications and doses, clinical skills and surgery. There are also numerous other updates and improvements throughout, many suggested by extensive market research and reader's feedback. Three new junior co-authors have been brought on board to ensure that the content reflects what readers really need. All in all, the latest Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine is just what the doctor ordered.