Pensak ML, Hart CK, Patil YJ. Otolaryngology Cases: The University of Cincinnati Clinical Portfolio, Second Edition. Thieme; 2018; 438 pp; 137 ill; $99.99.
This book was edited by 3 surgeons in the Department of Otolaryngology at the University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center. In addition to the editors who are also listed as contributors to this book, there are 49 other contributors, none of whom are radiologists or imaging specialists. There are 15 sections and 100 chapters covering common adult and pediatric clinical scenarios. The 15 sections of this text are primarily grouped by anatomic region or subspecialty, including:
- Pediatric otology
- Adult otology
- Neurotology
- Skull base
- Facial nerve
- The oral cavity
- Pharynx
- Larynx
- Thyroi
- Salivary gland
- Skin
- Rhinology
- General otolaryngology
- Sleep
- Pediatric otolaryngology
- Trauma
- Facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Within each section are chapters that begin with a patient-based clinical scenario with inclusion of relevant history and physical exam findings. This is followed by a differential diagnosis, typically with a brief description of the clinical characteristics of these entities, a discussion of diagnostic tests obtained, and/or what will help narrow the differential diagnosis, a statement of the diagnosis, a description of the medical and/or surgical management, rehabilitation and follow-up, a set of self-assessment questions with answers, and lastly, a list of suggested readings.
The chapters contain relevant and important information that will help with the evaluation and management of patients presenting with the conditions discussed. The prose is short, to the point, and there are few cross sectional images included in the book. This is particularly surprising and relevant, given the tremendous value imaging has for the majority of the conditions presented. However, there is discussion of the most appropriate tests to order, given the specifics of each case. On occasion, the images included contain descriptions without arrows, references to soft tissue abnormality on CT with only a bone window portrayed, poor quality, and incomplete or inaccurate descriptions of the abnormalities.
The medical and surgical management sections of this book appear to be adequate, given its intended brevity. The questions at the end of each chapter appear to be most relevant for residents-in-training or for general otolaryngologists preparing for re-certification. There are no references to any statement of fact, but there are suggested readings.
This case-based book is a well-suited review for general otolaryngologists and otolaryngology trainees caring for patients with ear, nose, and throat conditions. I do not believe this book would be of much value to radiologists seeking a review of the imaging findings of the common pathology encountered by otolaryngologists. However, it may be of value to radiologists who are seeking some insight into the non-radiologic work up, medical/surgical management, rehabilitation, and follow-up of the common and full spectrum of ENT pathologies.
