Tumors of the Thyroid Gland

This treatise is a compilation of papers presented at the Proceedings of the International Colloquium on Tumors of the Thyroid Gland, held in Marseilles. It was the purpose of such a meeting to assemble the world authorities in thyroid diseases regardless of, and most likely because of, their known prejudices. The study of thyroid tumors is exceedingly difficult. While any attempt to unravel this most confusing field would be considered worthy, the effort reflected in this publication is indeed' commendable. At the time of presentation its effectiveness was undoubtedly impaired by the large amount of material and the number of languages involved. Only in this complete, translated edition can the maximum benefit be derived from an international colloquium such as this. The generous amount of Figures and data along with a very smooth translation certainly make for a degree of clarity and understanding that could not have been achieved when these papers were delivered. This series of papers does not comprise a textbook since it does not attempt to define its subject against a background of normal thyroid physiology and histology. Instead, the papers comprehensively cover the field of thyroid cancer as generally recognized by specialists. Supplementary subjects were also covered but in no manner allowed to detract from the principal topic. The problem addressed was a clinical and epidemiological correlation between the histology and histochemical findings in tumors of the thyroid. Techniques are advancing considerably in these areas and certainly justify the attempts for current evaluation. The colloquium wisely prepared for conclusions that could be just as confusing and difficult as in previous meetings. This sensing of a need to look into biochemical and immunological approaches is apparent to the reader. As he studies this transition, with a moment of humor, there is the feeling that the old is giving way to the new: the old clearly defined by the classical students of science founded in Brussels, Lyons, Paris, Prague, and Marseilles; the new noticeably comprised of the few (less than eight of the approximate 100 invitees) Americans using more theoretical approaches. Regardless of the new or old, the total contribution, though limited, is an important one. The problem of thyroid tumors is still unsolved and will in all likelihood remain so without new approaches. This is an enlightening and interesting collection of papers. It is recommended for all students of thyroidology.