It is 20 years since the publication of the ? rst edition of Fetal and Neonatal Pathology. Perinatal pathology and its related clinical specialties have seen many changes during that time. Within the practice of pathology, there have been many advances of different levels of importance to our specialty. C- rently, the investigation of the molecular basis of normal development and of disease has changed our concepts of both and, at a more practical level, has supplied us with the tools to achieve more precise answers in individual cases. Aspects of perinatal pathology that have bene? ted particularly from this technology are tumors, skeletal dysplasias, muscular dystrophies, and renal cystic disease, where the effects have extended far beyond the purely diagnostic. Molecular pathology has resulted in new insights into devel- mental anomalies, as well as new tests for families at risk. The overall format of the fourth edition remains unchanged from the third edition, with chapters in the ? rst half of the book addressing more general problem areas in perinatal pathology, followed by system-based chapters covering speci? c pathological abnormalities. In this fourth edition, editorial responsibility has been shared by Drs. Keeling and Khong, as they have interests that are complementary. A new editor brings new ideas and contacts. There have been changes in authorship of a number of chapters, re? ecting the changing interests of individuals as well as the passage of time.
