It is a remarkable observation that human creativity can be fostered by spectacular scenery, itself usually the result of tectonic activity which raises mountains of beauty but carries the sting of earthquakes and eruptions. Think of Silicon Valley in Ca- fornia or of the Tokyo-Kyoto corridor in Eastern Japan. Another is the glorious Amalfi coast around Naples, where the authors of this new textbook work in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. Is it the beauty that inspires or the tension of knowing that one's life may be shattered at any moment if a volcanic or tectonic disaster strikes? Whatever the explanation, these authors' passion for their subject shines through and their work carries not only their enthusiasm but also a rare beauty in its construction/format, for it is a joy to hold and behold with its beautiful all-colour printing and abundant illustrations of excellent quality, mainly, of course, ultrasound images but also corresponding CT scans and numerous elegant diagrams. But, is there a need for a textbook on ultrasound in oncology? Doesn't everyone accept that CT or PET/CT (and sometimes MR) have nailed the problem of oncologic imaging? Well, while CT is undoubtedly the core imaging technique for the det- tion, staging, treatment planning and follow-up of tumours, there remain many app- cations for modern ultrasound, as readers of this textbook will be persuaded.
This essential volume provides detailed information on all key aspects of tumor imaging with diverse sonographic techniques. In the first part, the reader will find aspects on the main issues in clinical oncology, including screening, detection, characterization and staging of malignant neoplasms, assessment of response to treatment, and follow-up. Then, the examination technique and the main findings of all ultrasound modalities (gray-scale ultrasound, spectral Doppler, color-Doppler, power-Doppler, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound) are described, with special reference to clues and pitfalls in the process of diagnosis. Subsequently all clinical scenarios where ultrasound plays a major role are described in detail. The last part of the book depicts the main US-guided, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities.
Radiologists and non-radiologists performing ultrasound studies will find the book useful in their clinical practice.
