“My mom always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” Forrest Gump may not have been an otolaryngologist, but he certainly nailed the day-to-day experiences of doctors, as does this textbook of clinical cases.
The book comprises over 100 diverse cases arranged into six sections (Head and neck, Laryngology, Otology and Skull Base, Rhinology and Facial Plastics, Paediatrics and Miscellaneous). It has a broad target audience from trainees to practising otolaryngologists and general practitioners and aims to further diagnostic skills and aid revision for postgraduate exams. Each case has a brief vignette and good quality clinical photographs followed by pertinent questions and answers with further discussion of the topic. This interactive format combined with succinct detail is perfect for revising topics in manageable ‘chunks’ while also covering the majority of salient points. Every page is well formatted and inviting and there is helpful use of diagrams and tables.
The randomised order of cases is similar to the format of stations of the DOHNS OSCE and other exams as well as day-to-day practice where we may see patients with different presentations. At approximately £20 this book is undoubtedly good value for money for trainees revising for exams and I will be reading it cover to cover. In summary, this is an excellent collection of cases seen in clinical practice.
