Diagnostic Imaging: Head and Neck by H. Ric Harnsberger, Patricia A. Hudgins, Richard H. Wiggins, and H. Christian Davidson
Elsevier Science, St. Louis, 2005, $249
This comprehensive and wonderfully illustrated text is the most recent addition to the Diagnostic Imaging series. Author Ric Harnsberger is well known for his extensive work in the field of temporal bone imaging, and the book also has a long list of esteemed contributors. The information presented is a logical continuation to Diagnostic Imaging: Brain.
The book has a template, multicolor format, which makes the information easier to access. It's divided into five parts, including temporal bone and skull base, orbit and sinuses, suprahyoid and infrahyoid neck, pediatric and trans-spatial lesions. Each section begins with an introduction and overview addressing relevant anatomic and imaging issues. Subsections are well organized by pathologic entity and anatomic location.
As with other volumes in this series, the emphasis is on high-density, essential information, summarized in a bullet point format. Each entity is thoroughly defined with a discussion of imaging and pathologic findings, and differential diagnosis. A "key facts" section highlights salient features presented in the text. The differential diagnosis thumbnail gallery, unique to this series, is used to demonstrate multiple entities with similar appearance or presentation.
The strength of this text lies in the extensive information and easy to navigate format. Many excellent medical illustrations help reinforce difficult anatomy. Information is comprehensive. Normal variants are presented, as are more rare and exotic pathologic processes.
The weak points are few. For readers who are more comfortable reading prose, the book's format may be overwhelming or distracting. While not necessarily a drawback, the depth and volume of information provided may be more than required for the general radiology resident. I highly recommend this book to the practicing neuroradiologist or the advanced trainee preparing for the neuroradiology CAQ exam.
By Dr. Brian J. FortmanAuntMinnie.com contributing writer
January 6, 2005
Dr. Fortman is a neuroimaging specialist at Carolina Radiology Associates in Myrtle Beach, SC.
The opinions expressed in this review are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of AuntMinnie.com.
Copyright © 2005 AuntMinnie.com
