Abstract
Cowell, R. L., and Tyler, R. D. (eds.). Diagnostic Cytology and Hematology of the Horse, 2nd ed. 260 pp. Mosby Inc., St. Louis, MO, 2002. $130.00. ISBN 0-323-01317-1.
This book has a systems-based approach, with information specific to the equine species, and differential diagnoses for each organ system. Each chapter is written by various authors, most of whom are clinical pathologists. Several chapters (Ophthalmology and Theriogenology) are written by specialists in their respective fields. The diversity of the authors broadens the scope and enhances the quality of the information presented. This is the second edition of the book, which has revised chapters on several organ systems (including Gastrointestinal Tract, Synovial Fluid, and Cerebrospinal Fluid) with a greater number of color photomicrographs, all of which are of excellent quality. The number of references at the end of each chapter is variable, ranging from 9 to 152. The most extensively referenced chapters (Ocular System and Peritoneal Fluid) allow the reader access to more in-depth current scientific information on each subject.
In the preface of the book, the authors state that it is intended for veterinary students and practitioners. For that audience, the book is invaluable. There is abundant information on obtaining samples (including bone marrow, cerebrospinal fluid, and ocular samples), slide preparation, staining slides, and how to evaluate slides to distinguish among normal, inflammatory conditions, and neoplasia. The book includes numerous algorithms to arrive at a diagnosis. For each organ system, the authors offer an extensive differential list of diseases that are specific to the equine species. Information is provided regarding whether cytology is sufficient for a definitive diagnosis of a particular disease. There is discussion of the limitations of cytology and when histopathology is needed instead. This book includes numerous excellent color photomicrographs that illustrate normal cells, inflammatory changes, hyperplastic changes, neoplasia, and etiologic agents. An atlas at the end of the book includes 56 color photomicrographs in addition to those provided in each individual chapter. The photomicrographs also illustrate artifactual changes due to staining or sample preparation problems, which could confuse a novice in initial cytologic examination.
A few strong points of the book include the following. The chapter on the eyes and ocular adnexa includes excellent gross color photographs of ocular and periocular lesions in horses, which further illustrate various diseases. The chapters on Pleural Fluid, Peritoneal Fluid, Synovial Fluid, and Central Nervous System classify fluids by cell counts and protein content, but the authors also include a discussion of usefulness of serum chemistry tests to provide additional information in fluid evaluation. Reference values for 16 chemistry parameters in Peritoneal Fluid, and 9 chemistry parameters in Cerebrospinal Fluid are listed. Reference values are also listed for Peritoneal Fluid 1–7 days postsurgery after three types of abdominal surgical procedures. There is a discussion of usefulness of peritoneal fluid analysis for prognostic indications and surgical necessity in colic cases. The chapter on Semen Quality gives detailed directions for evaluation of the concentration of spermatozoa by several different methods. In this chapter, differential interference contrast photomicrographs and diagrams also illustrate abnormalities of the morphology of spermatozoa.
This is an excellent reference book to recommend to your veterinary students or to practitioners. They will gain a better understanding of the usefulness and limitations of cytology, be able to prepare high-quality specimens, and not have unreasonable expectations when submitting those specimens to a diagnostic laboratory. And for the equine clinician who cannot afford an in-house clinical pathologist, this book is the best alternative.