Walters MM, Robertson RL. Pediatric Radiology: The Requisites. 4th ed. Elsevier; 2016; 432 pp; 1200 ill; $109.99

The 4th edition of Pediatric Radiology, edited by Drs. Walters and Robertson, along with 21 other contributors, covers the field of pediatric radiology in 420 pages. Of course, in a book this short that attempts to address a large subspecialty, only the highlights of every area can be covered. This is the overall intent of the book—to provide a foundation in pediatric radiology upon which one can build. The neuroradiology portion of the book is reserved for the last 3 chapters (brain, spine, head and neck) and includes 144 pages. For a seasoned neuroradiologist, there are certainly other texts that are more inclusive; however, for a resident or fellow beginning a rotation in pediatric radiology or in neuroradiology, this is a solid introduction to the field. The images are crisp and each chapter summarizes the key elements.

Brain: congenital anomalies; neurocutaneous syndrome; hydrocephalus infections/inflammation; tumors; vascular disease and vascular anomalies; trauma; metabolic disease

Spine: developmental abnormalities; vascular abnormalities; trauma infection; inflammation; tumors

Head and Neck: congenital and developmental abnormalities (including orbits, nasal cavity, face, temporal bone, neck/oral cavity); trauma; infection/inflammatory conditions; tumors

For those who do not practice or observe much pediatric neuroradiology, these 3 chapters provide a wonderful summary, and the last chapter in particular allows one to evaluate and read about abnormalities that are infrequently encountered.

This book is recommended for any radiology library, whether in a private or academic practice. Neuroradiologists will not consider this a primary personal purchase.