MED3062

Infectious diseases and medical genetics and clinical molecular biology

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Infectious diseases

Dr B Adler (Microbiology)

Objectives By building upon the fundamental principles of infection and immunity acquired in MED2052, this unit aims to give the student knowledge and understanding of the aetiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of the more commonly encountered infectious diseases of skin, respiratory tract, genital tract, gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system; an understanding of the laboratory procedures used in the diagnosis of infections; a familiarity with the means of controlling microbial infections; and a thorough understanding of infection control procedures.

Synopsis The processes and the organisms involved in infectious disease, the response of the individual to these processes and the role of infections in the community. Skills and knowledge to begin the diagnosis of infection will be amplified by the practical work which, when completed, will enable students to carry out the basic procedures that are recommended for diagnosis of infections in general. At a community level, students will examine the ways in which infectious diseases are spread, their impact upon the community and methods that are used in the control of such diseases.

Assessment Written examination (3 hrs): 100%

Recommended texts

Baron S Medical microbiology 3rd edn, Churchill Livingstone, 1990
Gardner J F and Peel M M Sterilization, disinfection and infection control 3rd edn, Harcourt Brace, 1998
Humphreys H and Irving W L Problem oriented clinical microbiology and infection Churchill Livingstone, 1996
Mandell G, Douglas R G and Bennett J E Principles and practice of infectious disease 4rd edn, Wiley, 1995
Mims C A and others Medical microbiology Mosby, 1993

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Medical genetics and clinical molecular biology

Associate Professor D K Bowden (Anatomy)

Objectives The aims of this unit are to develop an understanding of the basic principles of modern medical genetics and clinical molecular biology including current clinical practice; enable students to integrate this knowledge with scientific and clinical teaching from previous years of the course; develop an understanding of how theoretical principles are applied to the clinical situation thus preparing students for further clinical learning and practice; enable students to participate in group discussions in which they can apply their understanding and scientific knowledge to clinical problems; understand the counselling process and to apply this knowledge and demonstrate skills through participation in problem-solving activities in group discussion; and develop an awareness of the wider applications of the field in areas such as forensic medicine and diagnostic molecular biology.

Synopsis Lecture topics include the molecular basis of inherited disease, the application of DNA technology to clinical medicine, genetic disorders, cytogenetics and genetic counselling. Gene therapy, ethical issues and counselling will also be covered in a series of group discussions and practical classes.

Assessment Examination (MCQ and short-answer) 1 hour: 95% · Group discussion and practical classes: 5%

Prescribed texts

Connor J M and Ferguson-Smith M A Essential medical genetics 5th edn, Blackwell, 1997 or
Gelehrter T D and Collins F S Principles of medical genetics Williams and Wilkins, 1997

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