This is a very comprehensive reference text that is published in a template based format that is easily searched. It is divided into six sections which will be addressed independently throughout this review. In addition to the printed text, technicians also are given an access code for the online version of the text and client handouts. The sections of the book are divided as follows:
- Diseases and Disorders (which in turn are subdivided by discipline and also listed alphabetically)
- Procedures and Techniques
- Differential Diagnosis
- Laboratory Tests
- Clinical Algorithms
- Drug Formulary
"Diseases and Disorders" are divided into their areas of specialty such as behavior, dentistry, nutrition and ophthalmology, just to name a few. Within each disease category is basic information (which includes epidemiology and clinical presentation), diagnosis, treatment, prognosis/outcome and pearls/considerations. All information is well organized and it is easy to find the information needed to assist in a diagnosis for the practitioner.
The "Procedures and Techniques" section includes for each procedure such as bone biopsy an overview and goals, indications, contraindications, equipment and anesthesia, anticipated time, preparation checkpoints, possible complications, the actual procedure, post procedure and alternative procedures. There are many black and white photos and graphics in this section that are helpful to utilize as guides and a review of procedures that one may be faced with performing.
The "Differential Diagnosis" section is organized into separate boxed areas that list symptom such as glucosuria as well as the differentials that should be considered. This section is more compact than the previous sections, but remains well organized.
The section dedicated to "Laboratory Tests" is presented in the same format as the first two sections organized by test in alphabetical order. For test there is a corresponding definition, synonym if available, typical normal range and physiology to be expected. It also includes the next step for consideration in the decision making process of completing a test from collection to interpretation of results including: causes of abnormalities, lab artifacts to take into account and sample collection technique and special handling if needed.
"Clinical Algorithms" are listed according to the disease process associated with and includes a nicely detailed chart for each disease covered.
The "Drug Formulary" is presented in a chart type format complete with generic drug names, indications, canine and feline doses, how supplied and comments. While not as comprehensive as a stand alone formulary; it does provide the basics that are needed for information on dosing.
Each section has a gray colored tab on the page that organizes this book for quick reference. The cover of the book actually is labeled with the corresponding gray tab location as an aid for quick topic location. While the addition of color photographs would have enhanced this publication, it is an excellent resource to have at hand in the laboratory as well as the treatment room. Although this book is designed for the clinical practitioner as an aid in diagnosis it is also suitable to be used veterinary technicians as a reference, especially the "Laboratory Tests" section. It will soon prove to be a valuable addition to the bookshelf.
Publisher name: Elsevier Health (2007).
1702 pages.
ISBN-13: 978-0-323-03698-6,
ISBN-10: 0-323-03698-8.