Media Release
Udupi, May 22: Manipal Academy of Higher Education, an institution of eminence deemed to be university, released the 317th publication of Manipal Universal Press (MUP), Atlas of Developmental Anomalies in the newborns, authored by Dr P L N G Rao, former pro vice chancellor, faculty of health sciences, MAHE, during a formal function held on Wednesday, May 20 at Manipal.
Releasing the publication, Dr Sharath K Rao, vice chancellor, MAHE, described the atlas as a unique and remarkable contribution to medical literature, representing decades of dedicated clinical observation and meticulous documentation by a single author. He noted that the atlas would serve as a valuable handbook for healthcare professionals across disciplines, including students, interns, consultants, and specialists.
Presiding over the event, Dr H S Ballal, pro chancellor, MAHE, emphasised the significance of pictorial representation in medical education and appreciated the extensive effort required to preserve and compile rare clinical images over several decades.
Referring to the atlas as more than a conventional medical textbook, he stated that the publication simplifies highly complex clinical problems through visually rich documentation. He highlighted that the inclusion of high-resolution photographs and scans, along with guidance on prognosis and parental counselling, would help doctors make timely and life-saving clinical decisions.
Published by MUP, a constituent publishing unit of MAHE, the comprehensive colour atlas documents developmental anomalies in newborns and serves as a practical reference for nurses, interns, paediatricians, radiologists, obstetricians, and superspecialists.
Sharing his experience as the author, Dr P L N G Rao stated that the atlas was developed over nearly two years and includes around 85 developmental conditions encountered in clinical practice. He explained that the publication aims to support healthcare professionals in early identification of anomalies, accurate diagnosis, parental reassurance and counselling, and informed medical decision-making. He also reflected on the painstaking process of photographing, scanning, editing, and preserving thousands of clinical images collected over the years.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Anand Venugopal, COO, MAHE, appreciated the book’s contribution towards improving understanding of congenital anomalies and highlighted the role of modern antenatal diagnostics and interventions in enhancing neonatal outcomes.
Welcoming the gathering, Dr Srinivasa Acharya reiterated MUP’s commitment to non-commercial academic publishing of select books of enduring relevance.
The event was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Dr P Giridhar Kini, registrar, MAHE; Dr Sandeep S Shenoy, professor & HoD MSCE; H Bharath Kumar, director PR & Media; Arvind N; faculty members; clinicians; and members of the MUP team.