Book Review

Biopsy Pathology of Melanocytic Disorders

N Engl J Med 1993; 328:1051April 8, 1993

Article

Biopsy Pathology of Melanocytic Disorders
(Biopsy Pathology Series [17].) by W.J. Mooi and T. Krausz. 433 pp., illustrated. New York, Chapman and Hall, 1992. $99.95. (Distributed in the U.S. by Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York.) ISBN: 0-412-32350-8

The sharp and crisp black-and-white micrographs are an outstanding feature of this book; there is also an excellent series of color photographs of cytologic specimens. The bibliography is abundant and up to date. The fact that this book was written by only two authors makes for a fluid and even style throughout. Tables of the most salient diagnostic features for almost all diseases discussed facilitate quick reference. Pitfalls in diagnosis are discussed at length. Clinical data and the molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry of melanocytes are touched on only briefly. The book is said to be “intended for surgical pathologists,” but dermatopathologists, clinical dermatologists, dermatologic surgeons, general practitioners, and physicians from many other specialties in which melanocytic tumors or conditions are commonly seen will also find it of interest.

I strongly recommend this book to everyone interested in benign or malignant melanocytic disorders. The price is a little high, but nowadays good and well-printed books are usually expensive. I would not mind spending that amount to add this book to my medical library.

Ricardo M. Mandojana, M.D.
Knoxville, TN 37922