Despite the ambitious title of this book, the editor has brilliantly delivered what he promised, and in a mere 300 pages. The topic is indeed covered comprehensively and concisely. As the subtitle states the initial chapters deal with basic science, including a detailed account of the anatomic, histologic, physiologic and immunologic aspects of the spleen.
In a section that covers areas at the crossroads between pathophysiology and clinical medicine, abnormal biologic characteristics and behaviour of a disordered spleen are described. I found the interactions between the diseased spleen and both the circulating blood cells and blood volume fascinating (even for a surgeon!). The section devoted to clinical medicine would be of interest to immunologists, hematologists and oncologists. Finally, the surgical aspects, including the so-called “medical” indications for splenectomy, trauma and surgical techniques, are discussed.
The layout is logical but simple. There is an adequate number of good quality black-and-white photographs that reproduce macroscopic anatomy specimens, histologic slides or radiologic images. These are supplemented by a small number of excellent colour plates. The text is also enhanced by easy-to-read tables and clear diagrams. Reference lists are extensive and recent.
Of what use is this book? Certainly, the surgical chapter is up-to-date and provides adequate coverage of the role of laparoscopy as well as the modern conservative management of splenic injuries. However, in my opinion the chapters on hyposplenism and the relationship of the spleen to infection are even more important to surgeons because the information contained in these 2 chapters is readily glossed over in standard surgical textbooks. Given the current debate on the conservative management of splenic trauma in the adult, the latest data on the actual dangers of the asplenic state are put in perspective in a balanced fashion, and clear recommendations for prophylaxis are presented.
This is an excellent reference text with something for everyone; even if it targets medical subspecialists, surgeons would greatly benefit from borrowing this volume from their libraries.