Diagnostic Pathology: Gastrointestinal, 4th Edition

By:  Joel K. Greenson & Scott R. Owens

ISBN: 9780443287336

Publication Date: September 5, 2024

Reviewer: Meredith Herman, DO (University of Michigan Medical School)

Description

This book covers diseases affecting the entire gastrointestinal tract, from the esophagus to the anorectum, encompassing both neoplastic and non-neoplastic conditions. A key structural element is the use of consistently-templated chapters, which, along with bulleted content and key facts, enhances rapid information retrieval. This is the fourth edition; the previous edition was published in 2019.

Purpose

The purpose of this book is to provide a quick and comprehensive reference to gastrointestinal pathology.

Audience

This book is designed to be an excellent point-of-care resource for practitioners at all levels of experience and training, including practicing pathologists, fellows, residents, and students.

Features

This new edition provides a comprehensive and detailed exploration of gastrointestinal pathology, going beyond a mere compilation of disease entities. It emphasizes a practical, diagnostic approach, equipping pathologists with the tools necessary for accurate and timely diagnoses. The book delves into the full spectrum of neoplastic and non-neoplastic conditions affecting the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, appendix, and anorectum. It describes different entities, elucidates the key pathological features, differential diagnoses, and relevant clinical correlations that are essential for effective practice. Several aspects of this book are particularly noteworthy. First, the book excels in its coverage of the nuanced morphological features of GI diseases. It provides detailed descriptions and numerous high-quality images that aid in the recognition of subtle yet critical diagnostic features. The clarity of the writing and the consistent organization of the material enhance its usability. The templated chapter structure, bulleted content, and key facts facilitate efficient information retrieval, which is crucial in a busy clinical setting. The emphasis on clinicopathological correlation is also a strong point, as it bridges the gap between histological findings and clinical presentation. In terms of unique features, the book is notable for its extensive use of visual aids. The inclusion of over 2,700 images, encompassing histology, gross pathology, medical illustrations, clinical photographs, and radiology images, is a significant strength. These visuals enhance understanding and aid in diagnosis, particularly for visually-oriented learners. The ebook version offers added value with its searchability, customizable content, note-taking capabilities, and text-to-speech function, features that are not available in the print version.

Assessment

This book is an exceptional resource, demonstrating high quality and substantial usefulness for its intended audience. Compared to other GI textbooks on the market, it distinguishes itself with a more focused, visually driven, and templated approach, making it more practical for daily sign-out. The updated edition is highly justified, incorporating critical advancements such as the latest WHO classification, new genetic alterations in GI cancers, and targeted gene therapies, all of which significantly impact diagnostic practice. I would highly recommend this book to pathology residents, fellows, and practicing pathologists, especially those specializing in gastrointestinal pathology, as it serves as an indispensable, up-to-date, and practical guide in the field.

©Doody’s Review Service, 2025, Meredith Herman, DO (University of Michigan Medical School), Doody’s Score: 94 – 4 Stars!

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