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Imaging of the scrotum & penis. By MD Rifkin and DLI Cochlin, pp. 288, 2002 (Martin Dunitz Ltd, London, UK), £115.00 ISBN 1 85317 509 9

This text is a long time overdue and has been a long time coming. As the authors rightly point out, awareness of male health issues has been steadily increasing over recent years and most Imaging Departments will have noticed a significant increase in examinations of, in particular, ultrasound of the scrotum.

As would be expected the subject matter commences with an overview of the embryology and anatomy of the male sex organs. There are some excellent line drawings and diagrams here. The reader is strongly advised not to miss this section as it forms the basis of understanding of all that follows.

There is a good review of the indications for scrotal ultrasound, which includes a useful discussion on scrotal ache and pain. As the authors state, in imaging patients with such symptoms, often nothing untoward is found, a scenario many patients find difficult to accept. Unfortunately the popular press fails to mention such may be possible.

The discussion on testicular calcification is interesting, but the literature references fail to include any after 1997, and there are many. I feel these would have enhanced the debate on whether it is necessary or not to carry out regular surveillance scans on such patients. Perhaps publication dates precluded this.

The illustrations are of excellent quality and cover virtually all possible pathology. However, I found the text somewhat difficult to read, especially in the slightly reduced lighting of an ultrasound room. The illustrations' captions are rather faint and a good bright reading light was needed. The use of a bolder print would be an enhancement should a second edition be published.

However, despite these comments, this is a book I keep close at hand and have found very useful in my daily clinical practice. A copy should be in every radiology and ultrasound department. As it is reasonably priced at £115, all those training in scrotal imaging should have their own copy. Urologists should also be encouraged to buy it.

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