Kazimierz Kozlowski – författare

The publication of a third edition after only five years confirms the widespread popularity of this book. Apart from the numerous additions and modifications consequent on the substantial expansion of knowledge in this field, the authors have further improved the value of this text with the excellent chapter, as men­ tioned in their preface, on general aspects of the problem. The advances referred to in this chapter, particularly molecular genetics and database access, have transformed the diagnosis of skeletal dysplasias. However, this basic text remains an essential starting point for anyone confronted with an unfamiliar condition. Among the references listed on page xix, Dr Kozlowski''s paper ''The radiographic clues in the diagnosis of bone dysplasias'', Pediatric Radiology 1985; 15: 1-3, is still essential reading. John Masel Preface to the First Edition The skeleton is involved to a significant extent in more than 500 genetic and congenital syndromes and although the majority of these are individually rare, collectively they are not uncommon. Diagnostic precision, which is crucial for accurate prognostication and effective management, is frequently dependent upon recognition of radiological stigmata. For this reason the radiologist plays a key role in the appraisal and investigation of persons with disorders of this type. With these points in mind we have written this handbook for use in the radiographic reporting room. We have endeavored to provide the essential information which will facilitate radiodiagnosis and have striven for clarity and accuracy.

We welcome the publication of this volume, which discusses the diagnosis of bone tumours with particular reference to children and adolescents. As founder members of the International Skeletal Society we are delighted to learn that the book had its inception at one of the Society''s meetings. It reflects, moreover, the combined presentation of radiological and pathological diagnostic information which has been such a feature of the meetings of the International Skeletal Society. We commend it to all readers with an interest in tumours of the skeleton. Hubert A. Sissons Ronald O. Murray Preface The diagnosis of primary bone tumors is often difficult. There are several reasons for this. As primary bone tumors are rare in childhood, practitioners in a number of pediatric subspecialties are not familiar with them. The clinical symptoms and signs are often elusive, the biochemical investigations usually normal and the radio­ graphic features often uncharacteristic. Even the pathologist, who is the final step in arriving at the proper diagnosis and who has all the available clinical, biochemical and radiographic data, may encounter difficulties. A good tissue sample is the basis for microscopic investigation. However, bone tumors often show an extreme variety of structures which confuse even experienced bone pathologists. Therefore, histo­ pathologic analysis must take into account all available clinical, biochemical and radiographic data. The close cooperation of the pathologist with clinicians and, especially, radiologists is of the utmost importance.

We welcome the publication of this volume, which discusses the diagnosis of bone tumours with particular reference to children and adolescents. As founder members of the International Skeletal Society we are delighted to learn that the book had its inception at one of the Society's meetings. It reflects, moreover, the combined presentation of radiological and pathological diagnostic information which has been such a feature of the meetings of the International Skeletal Society. We commend it to all readers with an interest in tumours of the skeleton. Hubert A. Sissons Ronald O. Murray Preface The diagnosis of primary bone tumors is often difficult. There are several reasons for this. As primary bone tumors are rare in childhood, practitioners in a number of pediatric subspecialties are not familiar with them. The clinical symptoms and signs are often elusive, the biochemical investigations usually normal and the radio­ graphic features often uncharacteristic. Even the pathologist, who is the final step in arriving at the proper diagnosis and who has all the available clinical, biochemical and radiographic data, may encounter difficulties. A good tissue sample is the basis for microscopic investigation. However, bone tumors often show an extreme variety of structures which confuse even experienced bone pathologists. Therefore, histo­ pathologic analysis must take into account all available clinical, biochemical and radiographic data. The close cooperation of the pathologist with clinicians and, especially, radiologists is of the utmost importance.

The first edition of this book provided a convenient passage through the minefield of skeletal dysplasia terminology and diag­ nosis, and has proved of immense value to its users. In the ten years since publication, many more syndromes have inevitably been described, the terminology has been revised, and the aetiology of a number of these conditions has been elucidated. The terminology used in the book is firmly based on the 1992 revision of the International Nomenclature. It is pleasing to see how this terminology is being accepted in the world literat ure, with a re­ duction in the confusion previously engendered by different usages. Readers of the book will find more than bare gamut listings. The abnormalities are carefully subdivided to allow a logical progres­ sion of thought and discovery; the entries include a variety of non­ dysplastic conditions which come into the differential diagnosis and there are many short interpolations which provide additional help to the searcher in problem areas. You will not find these fea­ tures in a computer database; they are the product of thoughtful­ ness and vast knowledge of the conditions in their clinical contexts. The process is further advanced by the series of summaries of the dysplasias and other syndromes; this section contains all of the con­ ditions listed in the International Nomenclature, plus others, and provides confirmation or exclusion of possible diagnoses and appropriate suggestions for further reading. This new edition will add significantly to the well-deserved pop­ ularity of the first edition.