Book Review of Learning Radiology, Recognising the Basics: Fourth Edition

Mammography, Radiograph, Ultrasonography

Written by

William Herring, MD, FACR Vice Chairman and Residency Program Director (retired) Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Published by

Elsevier, Inc.

ISBN: 978-0-323-56729-9

Learning radiology: Recognising the Basics, Fourth Edition [1], as the name implies, provides an overview of the fundamentals of radiology. It begins with an introduction to the basic modalities, including X-ray imaging, ultrasonography, Computed Tomography (CT), fluoroscopy, and Positron Emission Tomography (PET). This is followed by a discussion on recognising a technically adequate chest radiograph, normal pulmonary and cardiac anatomy and specific diseases in separate chapters.

The book also covers various aspects of abdominal imaging, highlighting the most common radiological abnormalities encountered in day-to-day practice. The present edition includes chapters on breast imaging, paediatric imaging, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). It concludes with multiple quizzes, some of which are available online only. In total, the book contains 30 chapters.

Additionally, there is a section featuring video content that effectively illustrates the concepts covered in each chapter in an animated format, enhancing the learning experience of the basics of radiology.

The first edition of learning radiology: Recognising the basics, was published in the year 2007 and the latest fourth edition currently under print is the 2020 edition.

The fourth edition of learning radiology: Recognising the Basics showcases various modifications and enhancements, all within the framework of its original structure aimed at delivering essential foundational content succinctly and straightforwardly. This edition has been upgraded with newer images, improved quality of older images, and the addition of newer topics in ultrasonography, trauma, mammography, and interventional radiology. However, nuclear medicine is now an online-only chapter, which could have been included in the print edition.

William Herring employs pattern recognition not only in conventional radiography but also in other modalities like CT, MRI, and nuclear medicine, combined with a case scenario in every chapter, making Learning Radiology all the more enjoyable and engaging. Although this book is written with first-year radiology residents in mind, undergraduates and consultants might also benefit from it if they want to learn the fundamentals of radiographic interpretation.

One of the best features of the book is its emphasis on clinical correlation. The author provides numerous examples of how radiographic findings relate to specific clinical conditions. For instance, in the case of breast imaging, he discusses when and which modality should be used for masses during pregnancy, as well as for nipple discharge, mastitis, and breast abscesses. This approach helps readers develop a deeper understanding of the importance of radiology in patient care. Such topics are seldom covered in radiology books, which often discuss imaging findings in isolation, requiring readers to refer to surgery books for clinical correlation.

The book’s writing style is characterised by its clarity and conciseness, facilitating reader comprehension. The author also includes helpful mnemonics and tips for remembering important information.

Digital compendiums and supplementary materials direct readers toward compiling the most suitable radiological examinations, which are expected to be invaluable during medical ward evaluations.

The author would recommend this book as a primer to understand the basics, from conventional radiography to PET-CT; however, it should not replace the subspecialty reading one ought to do to become a well-rounded professional.

[1]. This book is available online. Available from: https://www.amazon.in/Learning-Radiology-Book-Recognizing-Basics-ebook/dp/B07RD79SG4  [Google Scholar]