Cytopathology of the Breast
Author: Shahla Masood, M.D.
ASCP Press
Reviewed by Jerry Waisman, M.D., New York University Medical Center,
Tisch Hospital, New York, New York
Dr. Masood and the ASCP Press have produced a beautiful
update of aspiration cytology of the breast. The cover is
eye-catching, and between the covers the book is tastefully
and thoughtfully designed for easy and pleasurable reading.
There is appropriate use of tables and graphs, and the
organization is straightforward, with good coverage of
general topics and a comprehensive review of the common
and rare diagnostic entities presented in an accessible
format. New topics, such as grading of adenocarcinoma and
other prognostic factors and the diagnosis of benign prolif-
erative disorders, are generously described. Each segment is
comprehensively annotated with relevant references and,
most importantly, illustrated with large-format photographs
r 1997 WILEY-LISS, INC.
of gross specimens, sections of tissue, and aspirates with
routine and special stains, including immunohistochemistry
where applicable. Most of the smears are presented with a
Papanicolaou stain; however, there are enough air-dried
Diff-Quik-stained smears to provide balance. Color reproduc-
tion and focus are good throughout.
My only reservation about the book is the abbreviated
index, but this is not a major problem for a book that is
primarily an atlas covering such a specific topic. The book at
$145.00 is a bargain and is highly recommended for resident
physicians and practicing pathologists who need an over-
view of mammary cytology, a guide to special procedures
applicable to mammary aspirates, and a source of informa-
tion about specific diagnostic entities.
Diagnostic Cytopathology, Vol 16, No 3 291