Runge VM, Smoker WRK, Valavanis A, eds. Neuroradiology: The Essentials with MR and CT. Thieme; 2015; 256 pp; 502 ill; $99.99 

Ostensibly written for those needing an introduction to or a review of neuroradiology, this relatively short (256 pages) softcover book fills the bill for such an approach. By reading the book and reviewing the imaging, one can become familiar with the vast majority of diseases likely to be encountered.

There are 11 authors (the majority of whom are from the University of Zurich) and 3 editors, Drs. Runge, Smoker, and Valavanis, all of whom are well known experts in neuroimaging. As is the common way of approaching neuroradiology, the book is divided into 3 sections: Brain, Head and Neck, and Spine. Each section discusses major disease categories but, for brevity’s sake, leaves out some topics from each category. Techniques are not part of this book, so far those entering neuroradiology (eg, a resident or fellow in neuroradiology), supplementary technical information would be needed.

In this, as in nearly every textbook, the findings and observations are obvious. As we all know, it is the subtle or confusing findings that often trip us up. Do not expect to see subtle findings in this textbook.

For experienced neuroradiologists, the appeal of this book is scant, despite a decent summary of topics, particularly when the disease under discussion is not that commonly encountered. By its very nature the book glosses over topics that in a more substantive textbook would receive a reasonable discussion. And with that caveat comes the point that many entities are not illustrated, and many categories of diseases are not included. Again, by its introductory nature, only cursory explanations of most diseases are given. This book can be recommended only as a purchase for those entering neuroradiology for the first time or perhaps for a departmental resident’s library.