Pocket Guide to Ocular Oncology and Pathology, Grossniklaus H E, Bergstrom C, Baker Hubbard G, Wells J R, Singh A. ISBN: 978-3-642-28911-8 Springer

Abstract

All would agree how vitally important it is for pathologists and other specialists to speak a common language when describing and discussing tumours, and when discussing specimen transport and interpretation. This is why this new “Pocket Guide to Ocular Oncology and Pathology” from Hans Grossniklaus is so welcoming and a timely addition to the ophthalmic pathology literature: it furthers this bridging between ocular oncologists and the pathology laboratory. The Sections in the Guide are organised systematically as follows: Part 1 Basic Principles and Techniques; Part II Conjunctival and Corneal Tumors; Part III Retinal, RPE and Ciliary Epithelial Tumors; Part IV Retinal Tumors; Part V Uveal Tumors: Non-Melanocytic; Part VI Uveal Tumors: Nevus and Melanoma; Part VII Optic Nerve Tumors and Phakomatoses. Each chapter is well-structured and all information is concisely stated under the following subheadings Synonyms, Definition, Etiology, Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, Pathology, Differential Diagnosis, Prophylaxis, Therapy, Epidemiology, Cross References, and Further Reading. Such a structure enables the student to revise intensely prior to theoretical and practical exams. Most chapters contain colour illustrations, schematic figures, and/or pastel-colored tables that highlight the main points made within the text. Each chapter is accompanied by a reasonably updated list of references, which are listed alphabetically. The book would be especially useful to surgeons, pathologists, and radiologists practicing in less subspecialised institutions, particularly to those still in training. We have a few quibbles and suggestions to the authors when they consider the next iterations of this book. These are the following: 1. For the book truly to be a pocket guide we suggest that its formatting is smaller, so that it does fit into the typical coat or jacket pocket. Perhaps a soft or water-resistant cover should also be considered. 2. Changes in font or font color and dividing lines between parts would make the “