This is a gem of a book: a “must read” for anyone interested in growth and development, an important topic for pediatric nephrologists.

The multi-authored volume results from the proceedings of a June 2004 symposium sponsored by Serono Symposia in New Orleans. The first chapter immediately catches your attention, and this continues for the rest of the book. The common thread of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system, from basic research to its utility in clinical practice, weaves throughout the chapters in an orderly fashion. There is a wealth of small detail, e.g., interpretation of the “Mendelian randomization” or how the IGF generation tests monitor growth hormone (GH) therapy.

The utility of IGF treatment in GH deficiency and GH insensitivity; the risks of diabetes mellitus and coronary disease; the neuroprotective potentials of IGF therapy; the lack of effect of IGF administration in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and the research needed to overcome its inactivation by IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) are succinctly discussed.

Somewhat disappointing is the absence of a chapter devoted to the growth failure of chronic kidney disease. But I am sure, in future editions, this deficiency will be remedied. Still, as it is, the volume is worth buying for the pediatric nephrologist, for a broad understanding of this fast-moving field.