Takahashi M: Color Atlas of Cancer Cytology, Third Edition, 477 pp, Baltimore, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2000 ($199.00).

A general concept in pathology, and the world over, is to do more with less. In this regard, the prevalent use of cytology will only continue. The cytopathologist often must make a determination on a very limited amount of material, and thus atlases covering relevant findings are a worthwhile addition to one's library. This latest edition of the Takahashi atlas would assist anyone requiring such information.

This edition is a comprehensive atlas that covers the majority of cytologic malignancies one would encounter in routine clinical practice. The monograph is composed of 22 chapters, which fall into two general sections: general cancer cytology and practical cytology of organs. The chapters in the first section give overviews of immunocytochemistry, image analysis, flow cytometry, and fluorescence in situ hybridization uses in cytology. These chapters, as well as the rest of the atlas, are well illustrated with remarkably sharp photographs and illustrations. The chapters covering specific areas are inclusive, giving a description in the text and excellent illustrations of the entities described.

Overall, this atlas would be a valuable tool for pathology residents, fellows, and practicing pathologists who would like an atlas of high picture quality displaying a variety of cytologic features of neoplastic disease. This atlas also could serve as an adjunct to major cytology texts, which may have a limited number of illustrations.