History of Bone Tumor Pathology and Radiology: with Lent Johnson’s Insights

This book builds on the earlier work of Lent Johnson, who was a significant figure in the history of bone tumour pathology and bone tumour radiology in the USA. Johnson had worked on what became this book after his career at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP). Michael Mulligan, the second author, had worked with Johnson during his military service as a radiologist at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Johnson had asked Mulligan to review his initial draft chapters and, following Johnson’s death, Mulligan was able to complete this book as a tribute.

The book gives an excellent account of the history of the development of the specialities of both bone pathology and skeletal radiology. There is obviously an emphasis on the research and teaching programmes established at the AFIP; however, other contributions are not neglected. Of note is a very helpful list of books on musculoskeletal radiology and pathology from earliest times. 

Regarding the history of pathology, the books starts in ancient China and Rome and discusses the development of microscopy and of understandings of gross pathology. The diagnosis and classification of bone tumours is a complex and interesting topic and progress in understanding was slow. I particularly liked the discussion of the work of Ernest Amory Codman (of triangle fame) on the classification of bone tumours and the development of the bone tumour registry.

There is an excellent brief account of the development of diagnostic radiology with particular reference to the skeleton. The prehistory of radiology is well covered.

In addition to the technical aspects is an account of various medical libraries, societies and medical and pathological literature. The final chapter deals with the present and the future including CT scanning, MRI and an introduction to the possible value of AI.

The book is well worth reading, and there are few areas that are not covered. It is strongly recommended for anyone with even a slight interest in skeletal radiology and pathology.

Unfortunately, it is expensive with the hard copy costing £119.99 and the Kindle version only marginally cheaper at £89.99. This is a great shame since the book is excellent, and the price will make it inaccessible to many.

To purchase this title at our discounted rate email: katherine@radmagazine.com.