Correlative Neuroanatomy, 20th ed.

Correlative Neuroanatomy, ed 20 By Chusid JG, deGroot J. East Norwalk, CT 06855, Appleton & Lange, 1988, paper, 432 pp, illus, 22-50

This book, originally intended as an initial textbook for medical and other health science students, has become a classic reference on the subject of correlative neuroanatomy. The new edition contains current knowledge relating to the practical clinical application of fundamental concepts of modern neuroanatomy.

The authors include basic information on structural elements of the nervous system: cellular and modes of signaling, spinal cord and nerves, functional anatomy of the brain and cranial nerves, and a summary of the functional integration of the whole nervous system. They also include descriptions of diagnostic methods and discussions of representative clinical cases cited in the text. The section on aging patients is particularly interesting. It addresses structural aspects of brains of elderly persons, as compared with brains of healthy young adults, and discusses the characteristics of senile dementia and associated diseases.

The authors present a concise, comprehensive overview of the subject. The material is well organized and appears in a logical sequence. Clinical aspects of each area of the nervous system are emphasized. included are many examples of patients seen most often in neurology practice. These patients are discussed in relation to the neuroanatomy involved, the aspects of differential diagnosis, and the rationale for a final diagnosis. Several features enhance the value of this work. A bibliography at the end of each chapter allows opportunity for more detailed investigation of the topics discussed. A number of tables summarize the information presented on a particular topic. An extensive index provides ready access to any topic considered in the text. Special sections cover the discussion of cases, the neurologic examination, and the functional tests for principal muscles, which are useful adjuncts for the clinical reader. An appendix containing questions and answers provides a test for students' knowledge of basic neuroanatomy and its clinical applications.

The quality of the illustrations is outstanding; they are numerous and varied and include photographs and artists' sketches of healthy and pathologic conditions. The authors include excellent representative illustrations of each of the diagnostic aids and imaging techniques described. These include radiography, pneumoencephalography, angiography, ultrasonography, radioisotope scanning, computer tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET).

This book's 20 editions and world-wide distribution attest to its popularity and value as a textbook or reference on neurologic science. I recommend it highly to students and professionals who are working in the area of the nervous system. I also recommend this essential text to every physical therapy practitioner as a readily accessible desk reference.

Mary C Singleton, PhD