Abstract
The small size of this book is misleading. It has a wealth of theoretical and practical information. In the 12 chapters the authors cover technical aspects of immunohistochemistry, including history, antibody production, tissue preparation, detection systems and labels, nonspecific staining, controls, multiple immunostaining, immunoelectron microscopy, in vitro methods for testing antigen-antibody reactions, and applications. This book also includes an extensive appendix with detailed procedures (buffers, blocking solutions, antigen retrieval methods, immunostaining procedures, etc.). Information about specific markers or algorithms to characterize tumors is not provided.
There are few differences between the second and third edition, despite the publisher's claims of it being extensively expanded and updated. However, the third edition has incorporated new information (e.g., new antigen retrieval methods, mouse on mouse immunohistochemistry, testing of primary antibodies, new detection systems). Sections on tissue storage, immunocytochemistry on cytologic preparations, and characteristics of a good antibody are new or expanded. The layout of the third edition is practically identical to that of the second edition; this is not a criticism because the book is logically organized.
Color photos are larger and of better quality than those in the second edition. There are numerous black and white and halftone figures that have changed very little from the second edition, but improve the clarity of the descriptions and are easy to follow.
With some exceptions, references that are included in each chapter have not changed since the second edition. The index helps identify topics of interest.
This book is a classic of immunohistochemistry, with the necessary information to help novices and seasoned individuals explore specific areas. The information presented is clear, which is not surprising considering that the authors have been teaching this subject for more than two decades. I have used Polak and Van Noorden's book since the first edition in 1984 and continue to find useful information in it. This affordable book should be in every laboratory performing immunohistochemistry as well as on the bookshelf of researchers and diagnosticians who rely on this technique.