Top 3 Differentials in Radiology: A Case Review. William T O’Brien Sr. (author). Thieme 2009, 720 pages, 713 illustrations, $109.95.

This book caters to both residents preparing for boards and to those preparing for the rectification exam and for those radiologists preparing for the subspecialty examinations.  There are a total of 325 cases, of which 57 are Neuroradiology specific. The cases were chosen to represent many of the commonly encountered pathological conditions and the corresponding imaging findings.  On one page, there is a brief history, selected images, and then a description of the findings.  On the opposing page there are the top 3 possible diagnoses as well as a variable number of alternative diagnoses with brief discussions of the findings and clinical/pathophysiology of each. A final diagnosis and selected “pearls” regarding the case as well as references are given at the end. The final chapter contains 25 Aunt Minnie diagnoses. For example, there is a case showing the typical tram tracking cortical calcifications of Sturge-Weber. This book is high yield and is both a good board review and a useful quick reference.  One must be careful reading this book to make sure to note what the discussion and differential is regarding.  For example, one case in which a calcified globe lesion in a child is shown on CT, the differential discusses any globe lesion of a child, not just calcifying lesions.  While most findings are readily apparent, some are somewhat obscure, and there are no arrows to point to the exact findings. Overall, this book is well organized, easy to use and useful in both studying for boards and learning basic differentials.