(Paperback)
Advances in molecular and genetics-based diagnostics are driving an increased interest in cytopathology, as cytological specimens are the ideal substrate for this new technology. Although there are a handful of comprehensive, standard texts on the market, there is a need for portable, more concise books for easy reference. Thus, the inception of the new Essentials in Cytopathology series is intended to fill the gap in the market. This series will fulfill the need for an easy-to-use and authoritative synopsis of site-specific topics in cytopathology. The discussions will take into account the need for increased emphasis on differential diagnoses, the how-to's on screening, cytology/hitology correlation, what the criteria are, as well as issues involved with patient interaction, such as on-site evaluation. Discussions will address safety issues as well as diagnostic pitfalls. Each volume will be site-specific and edited by leading specialists in the field. These guide books fit into the lab coat pocket, ideal for portability and quick reference. Each volume will be heavily illustrated with a 125-image full color art program, while the text will follow a user-friendly outline format. A must-have for every pathologist, cytopathologist, fellow and trainee. The inaugural volume of the Series will be the Thyroid, edited by Drs. Clark and Faquin, leaders in the field of thyroid cytopathology.
Reviewer:Mousa A. Al-Abbadi, MD, FIAC (Wayne State University School of Medicine)
Description:Since the birth of modern cytopathology, the approach to thyroid fine needle aspiration (FNA) has been a field full of challenges and difficulties. The thyroid gland stands out with its peculiar rules that govern benignity and malignancy. The topic of "follicular lesion" or "follicular neoplasm" represents the heart of an old and ongoing debate. A degree of overlap exists between different diagnostic entities that make some of our days in the cytopathology signout room arduous.
Purpose:The authors in their small, but comprehensive, book elegantly simplify the general approach to thyroid cytopathology and push us to organize our thought processes when dealing with thyroid aspirates.
Audience:The book is targeted at pathology residents, cytopathology fellows, cytotechnologists, and cytopathologists. Endocrinologists and endocrine surgeons with interest in the field of thyroidology can also use the book as a reference. The authors are credible authorities in the field of cytopathology and thyroid FNA.
Features:They have organized the book in 11 easy-to-read chapters with more than 115 high quality full-color images. The first two chapters are dedicated to an outstanding introduction that emphasizes the clinical aspects of thyroid diseases and tips for FNA performance and optimum specimen processing. The third chapter is best described as exceptional and brilliant. A simple overview of how to approach thyroid FNA cytopathology is demonstrated in easy and clear algorithms that should be used during signout timeas the honest "cheat sheet." The remaining chapters deal with the rest of the thyroid clinically vital entities. Each chapter is divided into a background, general diagnostic approach, differential diagnosis, diagnostic criteria, relevant ancillary studies and tables, and management implications. The two chapters devoted to follicular and Hurthle cell lesions are well explained and contain clear illustrative color images. The discussions are superb and cover a relatively wide differential diagnosis with emphasis on the pitfalls.
Assessment:This is truly a wonderful book and I will keep my eyes open for the rest of the books in the series, Essentials in Cytopathology. I advise all pathologists, cytopathologists, cytotechnologists, cytopathology fellows, and residents in training to arm themselves with this book to help them master the science and art of thyroid cytopathology.