Pp. 802. Illustrated. 2005. Springer: Heidelberg. £5950.This book comprises two sections, the first dedicated to anorectal testing and the second to clinical anorectal assessment. Sixty-seven authors contributed to this comprehensive reference book on anorectal pathophysiology and the editors are to be congratulated on its publication. The first section of the book is more difficult to read than the second because it provides in-depth detail of complex anorectal physiology. Editorial commentary is appropriately provided at the end of the more complex sections. The second section is easier to read and more interesting than the first as it relates to clinical assessment and details those applications used in everyday practice. Leaders in the field of colorectal surgery provide comprehensive text supported by relevant black and white diagrammatic and radiological illustrations. The last four chapters are among the most valuable to the clinician as the functional effects of neurological dysfunction and the impact of psychological problems on anorectal function are discussed. David Beck has written a very practical, interesting and relevant chapter on medicolegal aspects of colorectal practice, which, although based on the American population, is applicable in other countries. The standard of presentation of each subject is varied, reflecting the large number of authors and, although some sections are difficult to read, the book is obviously intended as one of reference. To this end the editors have produced a most comprehensive guide to the identification and assessment of anorectal dysfunction.