This is not a large colour atlas for optical coherence tomography (OCT) with comprehensive reference lists offering an in-depth description of this popular technology, but an up-to-date pocket or handbag-sized, soft-backed textbook that is likely to become a well-thumbed primer for those wanting an easy-to-use, clinically-orientated volume on OCT.
There are 66 chapters on some 60 pathological conditions organised into 26 sections and further grouped into nine parts that include: an introduction to OCT; optic nerve, macular and retinal vascular disorders; inherited retinal degenerations; uveitis and inflammatory diseases; trauma; tumour and peripheral retinal abnormalities.
The short chapters have a standard format with the title of the condition, an introduction, its clinical features, the OCT features, any ancillary testing that may be helpful and treatment (where available). The text is presented on the left-hand side, with the facing right-hand page comprised of illustrations with well-labelled, highlighted key features. The pages are colour-coded at the edges so that one can easily navigate to the relevant topics.
The high quality fundus images, monochrome SD-OCT scans of high resolution and colour-coded analyses are numerous. The thumbnail-sized colour fundus images are of outstanding quality but may need to be closely inspected to appreciate the pathology they illustrate. The OCT scans are exceptionally clear and ideal for teaching image pattern recognition to the newcomer. Each scan is accompanied by a small symbol to indicate the orientation of that particular section; a helpful feature that avoids a common source of confusion for the inexperienced practitioner. Additional diagnostic data is also included where relevant, e.g. Humphrey visual field plots, Heidelberg retina tomograph printouts for comparison and fundus fluorescien angiography (FFA) images.
An added bonus is to have access to the full-text online and references to supplement the convenience when searching the topics covered. Access to the fully searchable text and other features online are by a unique code found on the inside of the front cover. Be aware though that access is only until another edition is published, or the current edition is no longer on sale by the publisher. The publisher states that an alternative replacement product, e.g. CD-ROM-based electronic version may be offered.
This publication would appeal to trainee ophthalmologists who need to use the OCT in daily practice, the specialist ophthalmic nurse, and all allied health professionals, including optometrists, orthoptists, ophthalmic medical photographers and retinal screeners, involved with OCT imaging.
I have enjoyed perusing this handbook and it is easy to read from front-to-back or ‘dip’ into a relevant topic for key features on a broad range of retinal conditions presented in a consistent format. My initial impression was that it deserved a score of 5/5 in value for money, and I have had no reservations in affirming this rating after reading the book.
