Small Animal Dermatology: A Color Atlas and Therapeutic Guide, 2e
Not having been aware of the First Edition of this book, I have been delighted to find such a useful addition to the library of Dermatology texts. The authors declared intent with the first edition was to create a colour atlas to compliment Muller & Kirk's Small Animal Dermatology. This volume, however, far exceeds this aspiration. The book provides an excellent diagnostic reference for all veterinarians dealing with the multitude of small animal skin cases presenting daily in the first opinion clinics. The authors' logical approach in providing an initial listing of differential diagnoses that should be considered from the presenting symptoms is accompanied by useful diagnostic algorithms for both canine and feline pruritus. The second chapter provides clear, well illustrated instructions for diagnostic techniques which are often under used by first opinion clinicians.Chapters 3-12 cover the various clinical entities met in small animal dermatology, from the very common; abscesses, pyoderma and atopy, to the more rare presentations such as cryptococcosis, toxic epidermal necrolysis and hepatocutaneous syndrome. Each condition is well described and its differentials listed along with guides to diagnostic confirmation, treatment options and prognoses. Common synonyms are given for each condition and tables of treatment options are helpfully provided in those conditions such as Pemphigus, where alternative or combination treatments are often required. Chapters 13-16 cover miscellaneous conditions, an excellent piece on tumour and the specific conditions related to Ryes, Claws, Anal Sacs and Ears. A final chapter showing pre- and post treatment images is interesting. Four appendices provide a useful listing of available topical shampoos, topical therapeutics, otic preparations and systematic therapeutic drugs.The outstanding feature of this book is the wonderful clinical photographs and their impressive reproductions. The authors are to be congratulated on their comprehensive coverage and superb clarity, often showing multiple views of lesions. The colour reproduction is rarely less than excellent throughout all of the 1200+ images provided.I would highly recommend this book to every clinician working in small animal practice as an excellent reference on all aspects of veterinary dermatology. It is a work of significant value, either as a stand alone reference text or, as originally intended, as the perfect companion to the standard dermatology texts. I'm sure  it will be in constant use by all who buy it.Craig Harrison BVM&S;, Cert SAD, MRCVS (UK)The European Journal of Companion Animal Practice, Vol. 17 (1), April 2007