BOOK REVIEWS Testis Tumors, Vol. 7 by John l? Donohue (Ed) Williams and Wilkins, Baltimore,
$45.00
The editor should be complimented for having gathered together a group of authors who are not only experts in their field and of international renown but excellent writers as well. In his introduction John I? Donohue stresses the importance of an international dialogue about testis tumors. The views on tumor classification, treatment of low stage as well as bulky or advanced disease, etc. still vary widely on either side of the Atlantic. These different viewpoints and interpretations become immediately apparent in the two chapters on testicular pathology. It is pleasing to note that the once highly emotional response and controversy at the time of the introduction of the British classification and nomenclature has now given way to a purely scientific and sober assessment. The necessity of future revisions once some of the current problems have been solved is fully recognized. These problems are discussed throughout the entire book, particularly in those interesting chapters on immunocytochemistry and the clinical applications of tumor markers. Chapters on clinical as well as surgical staging and a historical synopsis on node dissection then lead to subsequent monographs on management. Here the two presentations of transthoracic retroperitoneal and transabdominal lymphadenectomy are true highlights of the book. Step by step the reader is led through these approaches and the illustrations are excellent. The last articles give a detailed and up-to-date account of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. All aspects of these therapeutic modalities, whether alone, combined, with or without node dissection, and other surgical interventions are discussed. What makes this book so special is that every author brings us up to date with clarity and logical sequence. The limitations of diagnostic procedures and therapeutic options are clearly defined. Present problems are outlined in detail, and the British viewpoints as alternatives based on thorough work and statistical documentation leave us deep in thought.
UROLOGY
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AUGUST1984
/ VOLUMEXXIV,NUMBER2
The book concludes with “Final Comments.” Here we meet the authors “personally.” With noblesse and wisdom their views are presented, their appreciation of the recent progress and their optimistic approach to the future-a future of hard work, investigation, and research. This book is highly recommended. HS Genitourinary Surgery by David I? Paulson (Ed) Churchill Livingstone, Inc., York, 1983, 2 vols., $140.00
Longman
Inc.,
New
Textbooks on urologic surgery are a vital part of every urologist’s armamentarium, guide him through his training period, and become irreplaceable companions during his work as a clinical practitioner. Facilitated by rapid advances in anesthesia, diagnostic radiology, and antibacterial therapy, new methods and techniques in the surgical management of urologic diseases have emerged, and this process of innovation and perfection will always continue. It is, therefore, important for every urologic surgeon to be acquainted with the spectrum of all urosurgical modalities and to acquire the ability to judge the effectiveness, the appropriateness, and the suitability of modern techniques. In this concerted enterprise every author has chosen his own field of expertise. In dealing with specific organ sites the results of his considerable work and his vast personal experience become apparent immediately. The reasons for preferences are clearly and logically outlined, and the arguments are interesting and convincing. The presentations of the normal anatomy and physiology of the different genitourinary organs as well as the detailed discussion of developmental abnormalities and other pathologic processes enhance the quality of these two large volumes. Pediatric urosurgery received special attention as a separate part and as an individual entity. The excellent illustrations are very instructive throughout the book. A note to the Publisher: A much more detailed table of contents would assist the reader in looking for a particular topic. RDRF
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