Elsayes KM, Oldham SAA, eds. Introduction to Diagnostic Radiology. McGraw Hill; 2014; 704 pp; $95.00

An effective way of learning and understanding the basics of diagnostic radiology is to show material in a case presentation manner.  With two introductory chapters – one as an overview of diagnostic modalities and contrast agents and the other as an introduction to nuclear medicine, the textbook edited by Drs. Elsayes and Oldham presents clinical case material in eight separate chapters:  Neuroradiology, Cardiothoracic, GI, GU, MSK, IR, Pediatrics, and Women’s Imaging (including OB and Mammo). Twenty-six other authors have contributed to these chapters with an average of approximately 25 cases per section. Each case follows the same format (patient presentation, clinical diagnosis, findings, differential diagnosis, and references). The cases are straightforward and will serve well those being introduced to radiology for the first time, such as medical students on their required or elective course in radiology, or junior residents in radiology.  Certainly a student can appreciate and understand the foundations for key imaging diagnoses by reading this book. Other textbooks are aimed at a similar audience, for example the recently published book by Dr. Gunderman entitled Essential Radiology or Dr. Mandell’s book entitled Core Radiology. Dr. Mandell’s publication, in this reviewer’s opinion, offers a stronger learning experience. The inclusion of multiple and highly visual drawings of anatomy and pathology in Core Radiology enforces the lessons taught in the bullet-point narrative and shown in the images.

Introduction to Diagnostic Radiology would be a reasonable starting point for a student attempting to become familiar with radiology. It would, however, be worthwhile to take into consideration the ease of assimilation of material and the visual impact of other textbooks mentioned above when deciding which basic radiology textbook should be purchased for a departmental library.