Introduction:
The human species shows a great variability. The differences involve culture, customs, appearance but they also come to include some biological or physiological aspects which have a potential bearing on the course of diseases and the effects of treatment. Over the recent years, the increasing globalisation and improved travel opportunities have resulted in a growing mass mobility. The arrival of people representing other ethnicities may pose a challenge to doctors traditionally offering treatment to individuals within ethnically homogenous societies.

Aim:
The paper aims to present a comprehensive summary of state-of-the-art knowledge on race-related differences which may be of great importance for patient management in anaesthesiological setting.

Material and methods:
This paper is based on the available literature.

Results and discussion:
A literature review reveals a number of anatomical, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic differences between the races. Moreover, particular ethnic groups show dissimilarities in the prevalence of some diseases requiring modifications in anaesthesiological management.

Conclusions:
Prior to the commencement of treatment, patient’s ethnicity and the consequent differences in terms of physiology should be recognised and considered in the treatment to ensure it is conducted appropriately and safely.