If you are in the market for one book that comprehensively explains and illustrates everything a veterinary technician needs to know about hematology – this is the one. I was delighted to see that the book is written with the veterinarian, clinical pathologist, and veterinary technician in mind.
The book is divided into nine chapters, which begins with an introduction to veterinary hematology. The second chapter addressing Hematology Procedures reviews proper collection techniques as well as a variety of interesting photographs, including a set that show comparatively the differences in cat blood with varying amounts of methemoglobin, oxyhemoglobin, and deoxyhemoglobin. Written in language which is understandable to people of all levels of understanding of veterinary medicine; the explanations are well presented and supported by an array of photographs and drawings (836 illustrations in all). Those needing a review of the proper technique for blood smear preparation and staining will adore Chapter 2.
Beginning with Chapter 4, the chapters are each dedicated to specific cell types found in the blood smear to include: erythrocytes, cells of immune-histology (cytokines, plasma proteins and lymphocytes), platelets and bone marrow cells. The photographs and micrographs are excellent complements for use by the hematology technicians involved in blood smear examination, both clinically and research oriented.
Finally, the book ends with three appendices: Tables, Algorithms and Case Studies. The case studies are not average, run-of-the-mill studies but rather – interestingly and engaging case studies (8 in all). I found Case 8: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus of a Cocker-spaniel very interesting; an added bonus is that each case study has a reference section for those desiring more in-depth information than is provided in the 1-page case studies.
This book is a solid 5 out of 5 star rating for any veterinary technician, technician student or veterinarian with an interest or need for hematological review. It is one book that will not gather dust on the shelf and more often than not, will reside right next to the microscope.
Publisher: Elsevier (2012)
ISBN13: 978-1-4377-0173-9
VIN Bookstore: Currently Unavailable