Alan O. Trounson and David K. Gardner: Handbook of In Vitro Fertilization (Second Edition). New York: CRC Press, 1999:1-560.
The second edition of A handbook of In Vitro Fertilization, is directed at reproductive endocrinologists, fertility specialists, students and scientists. This text continues the philosophy of incorporating present IVF methods on future developments with particular emphasis on the growing ethical consideration. As such, all of the 12 distinguished authors were very clear in addressing this message throughout the book chapters. The first edition was published in 1993.
This textbook consists of 23 chapters encompassing the field of assisted reproductive technology (ART), and is divided, roughly, into the broad areas of: the clinical and laboratory investigation of the infertile couple, endocrinology of IVF, clinical and laboratory techniques, preimplantation genetic diagnosis and chromosomal anomalies, cryobiology in human reproduction, ultrastructure of human gametes and ultrastructure of ICSI, the ethical/social ramifications of ART, and the foreseen future developments in IVF and related technologies.
Overall, this edition is both comprehensive and well written. Particularly strong are the chapters covering the embryo culture systems, micromanipulations as a clinical tool, and the chapters on cryopreservation of oocytes/ovarian tissue. Additionally, the several chapters dealing with the laboratory aspects of ART are highly practical. Each chapter details newly evolved concepts and citations.
The chapter on the assessment of the embryo metabolism and viability deserves specific mentioning. It discusses in a wonderful way different methods of viability assessment starting with the classical morphological evaluation followed by embryo development in culture, dye exclusion and fluorescence of degenerate cells. The early embryonic secretory activity is deliberately addressed notably the production fluorescent metabolites, platelet activating factor and human chorionic gonadotrophin. This chapter points to the future need of practical methods for quantification of embryonic enzyme leakage, oxygen uptake and nutrient uptake.
Nonetheless, a few minor criticisms should be noted. Although it is generally an excellent overview, the chapter on the endocrinology of IVF has a few gaps, notably lacking a discussion of the emerging use of insulin-sensitizing agents such as metformin in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and also omitting some useful therapeutic strategies for treatment of the PCOS high-responder, such as “coasting”. There is lack of an in depth discussion of the frequently encountered problem of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. The chapter discussing the embryo culture systems lacks informative data on the emerging blastocyst culture system. Moreover, the techniques implemented in the in vitro maturation of oocytes needs to be clearly specified and criticized.
More extensive referencing of the section on implantation theory would have strengthened the chapter discussing the uterine receptivity and embryo transfer.
However, these specific concerns do not significantly detract from the overall high quality and thoroughness of this useful volume. This textbook will be an important and practical addition to any assisted reproduction library.
In conclusion, this textbook is well written with several outstanding chapters. As an excellent reference among assisted reproduction texts, its basic physiological principles serve as the foundation for its clinical and laboratory management strategies at any level of expertise. The book's timely inclusion of ongoing areas of investigation, possible future developments and recognition of unanswered questions not only incites critical thinking but also stimulates reader curiosity. Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of this text will be its effect on improving the understanding of young scientists of different aspects of this rapidly growing subspecialty.
Mohamed A. Bedaiwy, M.D.
Cleveland Clinic Foundation Ohio, USA