Book excerpt: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a new and still rapidly developing imaging technique which requires a new approach to image interpreta tion. Radiologists are compelled to translate their experience accumulat ed from X-ray techniques into the language of MRI, and likewise stu dents of radiology and interested clinicians need special training in both languages. Out of this necessity emerged the concept of this book as a manual on the application and evaluation of proton MRI for the radiolo gist and as a guide for the referring physician who wants to learn about the diagnostic value of MRI in specific conditions. After a short section on the basic principles of MRI, the contrast mechanisms of present-day imaging techniques, knowledge of which is essential for the analysis of relaxation times, are described in greater de tail. This is followed by a demonstration of functional neuroanatomy us ing three-dimensional view of MR images and a synopsis of frequent neurological symptoms and their topographic correlations, which will fa cilitate examination strategy with respect to both accurate diagnosis and economy.