Vascular Neurology: Questions and Answers

Abstract

Nancy Futrell, MD and Dara G. Jamieson MD. Demos Medical Publishing LLC, New York, NY, 2008. ISBN 978-1-933864-24-2, $75.00. Scope: This is a study guide presented in question-and-answer format for physicians preparing for board certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (APBN) in vascular neurology. It contains more than 500 questions and is divided into nine sections, covering basic sciences and clinical topics. One third of the book is devoted to clinical stroke, but the authors also cover basic science, cardiology, hematology, pediatric stroke, pathology, imaging, pharmacology, and rehabilitation. Strengths: This study guide is comprehensive, well-written, and easy to read. Most sections reference pertinent and appropriate literature in the field. Questions and answers provide a good review of the basic science, epidemiology, pathophysiology, evaluation, treatments, and outcomes. Questions are quite representative of those found on the APBN board. Particularly strong sections are those on clinical stroke, pharmacology, rehabilitation, and pathology. Weaknesses: Although the text deals mostly in well-accepted and scientifically based evidence, the authors occasionally present personal cases and anecdotes as definitive practice. The basic science section has very little anatomy and not enough illustrations. Many of the black and white images are of poor quality. The cardiology and hematology sections rely heavily on single texts for references. Recommended Audience: This book successfully targets its intended audience of those preparing for the vascular neurology board examination, but residents preparing for the general neurology APBN board examination will probably find this book useful as well. Critical Appraisal: This book fills a much-needed niche. It is thorough, relevant, accessible, and worth reading. However, its value is slightly diminished by the low quantity and uneven quality of photos as well as the authors’ occasional use of personal anecdotes. Michael J. Wilder, MD Jennifer Juhl Majersik, MD, MS Department of Neurology University of Utah Salt Lake City, Utah