Preface to the second edition

Haematology has seen many changes since 1998 when the first edition of this small book was written. Most notably, there are major advances in the treatments of malignant blood disorders with the discovery of tyrosine kinase inhibitors which have transformed the outlook for patients with CML, the rediscovery of arsenic for AML, and many other new therapies. Progress has been slower in the non-malignant arena since there is still limited evidence on which to base decisions. We have attempted to update each section in the book in order to ensure that it reflects current practice. Although molecular diagnostics have seen huge changes through the Human Genome Project and other methodological developments, we have not included these in great detail here because of lack of space. We have attempted to focus more on clinical aspects of patient care.

This edition welcomes two new authors: Professor Sir John Lilleyman, immediate Past-President of the Royal College of Pathologists, is a Paediatric Oncologist at Barts and The London, Queen Mary’s School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of London. John is a leading figure in the world of paediatric haematology with an interest in both malignant and non-malignant disease affecting children. He has extensively revised the Paediatric section of the book, in addition to Immunodeficiency. Dr Trevor Baglin, Consultant Haematologist at Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge is Secretary of the British Committee for Standards in Haematology Haemostasis and Thrombosis Task Force. Trevor is the author of many evidence-based guidelines and peer-reviewed scientific papers. He has rewritten the Haemostasis section of the book and brought this in line with modern management.

Other features of this edition include the greater use of illustrations such as blood films, marrows, and radiological images which we hope will enhance the text and improve readers’ understanding of the subject. We have increased the number of references and provided URLs for key websites providing easy access to organisations and publications.

There will doubtless be omissions and errors and we take full responsibility for these. We are very keen to receive feedback (good or otherwise!) since this helps shape future editions. If there is something you feel we have left out please complete the Readers comment card.

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2004