Book excerpt: This book will provide the reader with an overview of the essential meanings of key words in the physiology of various organ systems. This book is linked to a Question and Answer book on these organ systems that was published previously by Springer and will focus on cardiovascular, pulmonary and renal physiology. Each physiology system will be organized in to five different sections, covering the main areas of interest and each section will contain at least ten clear definitions of the main topics in this area. This book will present an easy reference guide for those just starting out in the area of physiology and for those who are interested in clear and succinct definitions of key terms.