Synopsis

Clinical and radiologic examinations cannot reliably distinguish benign or inflammatory pancreatic disease from carcinoma. The increased use of pancreatic fine needle aspiration (FNA) along with advances in imaging techniques and the introduction of endoscopic ultrasound guidance have led to significantly better detection and recognition of pancreatic masses. Consequently, pancreatic cytopathology is integral to accurate pre-operative diagnosis yet it is a challenging diagnostic area with a variety of potential pitfalls and "look-alike" lesions. Skillful recognition and an awareness of the limitations of the procedure are essential in avoiding misdiagnosis of these dangerous lesions.

Atlas of Pancreatic Cytopathology with Histopathologic Correlations fills a void in current pathology literature. With 450 high-resolution images, including images of histopathologic and radiologic features, this practical atlas presents an integrated approach to diagnostic cytopathology that will help physician cytopathologists, cytotechnologists, and pathologists avoid potential pitfalls and "look-alike" lesions. Written by recognized experts in the field, the extensive high-resolution color images of the characteristic features of pancreatic disease are presented with detailed descriptions that cover classic features, diagnostic clues, and potential pitfalls.

Atlas of Pancreatic Cytopathology with Histopathologic Correlations is a valuable resource for the seasoned cytopathologist, general and surgical pathologists, pathology trainees, and cytotechnologists.

Reviewer: Maura F. O'Neil, MD(University of Kansas Medical Center)
Description: This is a beautiful pancreatic cytopathology atlas. A true pathology atlas, it contains numerous (450) color photomicrographs encompassing gross, radiology, cytopathologic, and histopathologic images, all accompanied by complete captions.
Purpose: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided needle biopsy has expanded as technology and imaging techniques have advanced, making virtually any body site accessible through minimally invasive techniques. These new techniques present pathologists with new challenges and complexities in the interpretation of pancreatic fine needle aspirations. The objective of this atlas is to provide an integrated approach to establishing a diagnosis by incorporating cytopathology, surgical pathology, and radiology. The authors succeed in presenting a comprehensive, yet concise summary of pancreatic cytopathology, including correlation with histopathology and radiology.
Audience: This atlas is appropriate for cytotechnologists, pathology residents and fellows, surgical pathologists, and seasoned cytopathologists. The authors are experts in pancreatic pathology and share their tremendous experience and expertise gained from the wealth of material at Johns Hopkins Medical Center.
Features: Numerous color photomicrographs depict the full range of findings seen on fine needle aspiration biopsies of the pancreas. Included are normal pancreas and gastrointestinal contaminants, cystic lesions, non-neoplastic lesions, and benign and malignant neoplasms. An entire chapter is devoted to radiologic images, highlighting the salient radiographic features of selected lesions. The other chapters begin with gross and histopathologic images which reinforce the architectural features encountered in fine needle aspiration. The high quality images highlight the cytologic features for each disease entity, including typical as well variations of patterns. Each image is accompanied by a detailed legend which includes a discussion of characteristic features, differential diagnoses, and diagnostic pitfalls.
Assessment: This is a beautifully illustrated and well written practical atlas of pancreatic cytopathology. Novice and experienced cytopathologists alike will appreciate the high quality images and excellent accompanying legends.

Biography

Syed Z. Ali, MD is Associate Professor of Pathology and Radiology at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland.

Yener S. Erozan, MD, is Professor of Pathology at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland.

Ralph H. Hruban, MD is Professor of Pathology and Oncology at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland.