Principles and Practice of BrachytherapySubir Nag, ed. Armonk, NY. Futura Publishing Co., 1997. 732 pp. $160. ISBN 0-87993-6540

Extract

Brachytherapy is defined as treatment at a short distance with radiation. More specifically, it is the use of radioactive isotopes that are placed in or near a site to deliver treatment to primarily malignant tumors but also benign conditions. This is an area of radiation oncology that has had a recent revival in interest. This interest is especially true with high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy, which has become more prevalent in its use in the United States. Principles and Practice of Brachytherapy, edited by Dr. Subir Nag, is a comprehensive textbook that summarizes the present status of the field. While there are earlier texts available, which the editor gratefully acknowledges, this book must be counted as the most valuable and current resource available. The editor clearly sets out the goals of the book and also makes plain as to what this book is not: a substitute for first-hand experience. The book is divided into three parts — basic principles, clinical body sites, and special topics. The chapters are organized in each section in a similar manner. This organization is quite helpful to both casual readers as well as for those who are looking for specific information.