Schumacher HR Rock WA Jr. Stass SA:

Handbook of Hematologic Pathology, 774 pp, New York, Marcel Dekker, Inc., 2000 ($225)

In the preface of this book the editors state that it “… was written by authors who apply every day what they write about in their chapters.” Indeed, it was a pleasure to read this text because this “first-hand” experience can be felt throughout the book.

The particular strength of this book is the non-neoplastic hematopathology. Complex and difficult concepts are clearly presented, and tables are excellent throughout the book. Diagrams are very good. Case studies at the end of chapters are well chosen and accompanied by overall excellent discussions. The book is also problem-oriented, but this again applies mainly to non-neoplastic hematology. A short but excellent chapter on quality control and quality assurance in hematology laboratory is given at the end of the book.

The choice of figures is very good, but many figures are out of focus, the contrast is poor, and most are too dark. Some of the figures are so bad that they look like poor quality photocopies. I found one mislabeled figure (p. 178).

I would strongly recommend this book to residents and fellows in hematopathology. But make sure you also have a good hematopathology color atlas while studying for certification in hematopathology.