This collection investigates the intersection of medical diagnosis and investigative detective work, focusing on how physicians identify obscure or mysterious ailments. The authors, Michael Howell and Peter Ford, draw upon their professional backgrounds to present a series of clinical case studies that function as medical mysteries. They argue that the diagnostic process often mirrors the methodology of a criminal investigation, requiring the systematic collection of evidence to solve complex health puzzles.

Readers frequently note the accessible, narrative-driven style that makes complex medical concepts understandable for a lay audience. Experts highlight this as a compelling look at the detective-like nature of clinical medicine, though they caution that the cases reflect specific historical medical contexts.