Abstract
The atlas is divided into 10 short chapters. The first chapter contains basic but concise information on the production, stages of development and morphology of the red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets (haematopoiesis). A description of the morphological characteristics of other cells present in the bone marrow (macrophages, osteoclasts/osteoblasts, mast cells) is also included.
Chapters II, III, and IV are devoted to the red blood cells. The second chapter includes information on the morphological features of mature red blood cells of healthy animals and underlines interspecies differences. The third chapter describes variations in the morphology of red blood cells which can occur in animals with various pathophysiological and disease states (eg, immune-mediated damage, oxidative injury, mechanical fragmentation). The fourth chapter is dedicated to the identification of common red blood cell inclusion bodies (eg, distemper virus) and parasites (eg, Haemobartonella spp).
Chapters V, VI and VII are devoted to white cells. The fifth and sixth chapters provide information on the morphological features of white blood cells in healthy animals and in animals with inflammation, while the seventh chapter contains useful information on the identification of white blood cell inclusions (eg, Morula of Ehrlichia spp) and parasites.
Chapter VIII is devoted to platelet morphology, interspecies differences and identification of platelet parasites. Chapter IX, focuses on the changes that are present in the peripheral blood of animals with lymphoproliferative and myeloproliferative disorders. The last chapter contains useful tips for the identification of cells which are often not classified accurately by the novice, and underlines the limitations of the rapid haematological stains on cell identification. The book ends with a glossary which defines many of the terms used in the text and two appendices on the semiquantitative grading schemes for the evaluation of red blood cell morphology and neutrophil toxicity.
In summary, this is a useful haematology atlas which provides fundamental information on the identification of the normal and abnormal morphological features of blood cells of the common domestic species (including llamas!). All microphotographs are excellent and the text clear and easy to read. It will prove of great value to undergraduate veterinary students, nurses and practitioners interested in haematology, and is highly recommended.