Teffer A, editor: Primary Hematology, 472 pp, Totowa, NJ, Humana Press, 2000 ($125.00).

This book, produced by a team of hematologists from Mayo Clinic, could be dubbed Mayo Clinic Hematology for non-hematologists. It stands out among the numerous other hematology books for its down-to-earth, practice-oriented tilt, methodical approach to common hematologic problems, and an excellent application of algorithmic diagnostic/treatment schedules. All these pearls of wisdom are taken directly from the time-tested routine practiced at Mayo Clinic, thus bringing to the reader not only the experience of several generations of experienced clinicians, but also implicitly the stamp of approval of one of the most famous medical institutions in the United States.

The book is concise but still comprehensive, covering essentially all aspects of hematology for the practicing physician. Key issues of diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment are discussed for all major entities, such as anemias, leukemias, and bleeding disorders. Each topic is discussed systematically, leading the reader step-wise from the simple facts of diagnosis and clinical work-up, through the labyrinths of differential diagnosis, to choosing the logical, currently recommended therapeutic modalities. Items such as “easily overlooked problems,” “associated conditions,” and “general management recommendations” are frequently included and, for the sake of visibility, often these aspects of the text are presented in tabular or framed format. Currently used drugs are discussed thoroughly, together with the expected and less common adverse reactions. Two last chapters worth mentioning deal with ethical problems encountered in the practice of hematology and statistical methods.

This is an excellent book, and I plan to recommend ir to my residents and fellows. I hope that it will be read by general internists and family practitioners and clinical pathologists. It is an ideal guide on how hematology should be taught and practiced.