Abstract
The reader of The Necropsy Book will learn that necropsies should be done methodically, the same way every time, and thoroughly and the observations are to be put together to make a report. An example of a report is given. There is step-by-step instruction on carrying out a dissection, using the horse as a model. No mention is made of the difficulty the novice will have in accomplishing some of the recommended steps, e.g., cutting through the keratoepihyoid joint of hyoid bones and opening the coffin joint. Most of the common postmortem artifacts are described in detail, with an explanation of their cause. The second half of the book is devoted to line drawings and notes on common gross lesions of lungs, liver, kidneys, and heart of domestic species, mostly large animal, in the format of one lesion per page. The topics selected have been grouped according to whether the lesions are diffuse, diffuse combined with locally extensive or multifocal, focal, or multifocal. For each lesion, there is generally a detailed description, cause(s), and particular animal species data. Sometimes pathogenetic mechanisms are mentioned. There is little information on differential diagnoses or the collection and selection of specimens. The drawings of the organs are good enough for the reader to flip through the pages and find something to match a necropsy specimen. “Rough Drawings for Necropsy Lesion Localizations for Copying onto Necropsy Reports” is a short section that could be useful for getting students started on recording their observations. Numerous spelling mistakes and frequent use of “pale” as a color are annoying. This almost pocket-size book can be read cover to cover in 2–3 hours. The Necropsy Book would be useful for veterinary students about to embark on a necropsy rotation, for technicians starting employment in a necropsy room, and for graduate veterinarians needing a refresher.