Runge VM, Morelli JN.  Essentials of Clinical MR. Thieme Medical Publishers 2011, 264 pages, 678 illustrations, $59.95.

In this softcover 264-page book Drs. Runge and Morelli (with contributions from 11 other authors) have compiled 102 types of abnormalities in multiple body areas and described the associated MR findings.  Each one of these 102 topics has a two to four page summary of the entities, along with representative images.  Fifty six (i.e. over half) are related to neuroradiology (Brain, Spine, Head/Neck) and 3 deal with additional topics applicable to neuro: MRA / MR contrast / adverse reactions.  As expected the remainder deal with other areas:  Heart / Chest (6), Breast (2), Abdomen and Pelvis (12), MSK (20), MRA (4).  The summaries of the neuro cases highlight the key point for each set of abnormalities; these are basic and short, and the accompanying images are of good quality.

There is really little in this book which would appeal to the practicing neuroradiologist or even to a neuroradiology fellow.  Nonetheless, for residents starting their MR rotations in various subspecialty areas, the book can serve as a solid introduction to basic clinical MR.