Neuroanatomy: An Atlas of Structures, Sections, and Systems, 4th ed.

Haines DE. Baltimore, MD 21202, Williams Wilkins, 1995., paperback, 260 pp, illus, $27.95.

This book was designed to simplify the learning of human neuroanatomy by providing a maximum amount of useful information in a short period of time. For this purpose, it is filled with illustrations, including photographs, color-coded line drawings, and a variety of angiograms. All of these illustrations are of the highest quality and are extremely effective in depicting both the structure and function of the central nervous system. Each illustration is accompanied by a short text.

The text passages are extended in chapter 7, titled "Synopsis of Functional Components, Tracts, Pathways, and Systems.," to include a wealth of clinically relevant information, as well as information on various system-related neurotransmitters.

Regarding its scope and quality this book is very comprehensive, providing in-depth, up-to-date information on virtually every pathway and system within the brain. Because of its organization and strong visual appeal, however, the information that is presented is relatively easy to digest. This book is markedly different from other neuroanatomy atlases in that it presents the brain as a 3-D structure, and it places emphasis on functional (clinical) relevance.

This is undoubtedly the best atlas of human neuroanatomy that is currently available. I strongly recommend that it be adopted as a required text for physical therapy students at any level. it should, however, be used in conjunction with a traditional neuroanatomy text. The details contained in the atlas need not be focused on for students in introductory courses, but perhaps may be included in classes composed of graduate students. in addition to its value as a text, this book is also recommended as a reference book for any physical therapist who treats patients with neurological illnesses. Its use would provide a quick and effective tool for reviewing those structures that may have been compromised in some patients.

SG Patrick Hardy, PhD, PT Univ of Mississippi Medical Center Jackson, Miss

Dr Hardy is an associate professor in the physical therapy program where be teaches neuroanatomy. He also conducts basic neuroscience research concerning cortical and subcortical influences upon cardiovascular functions and nociception.