BNS3062 - Imaging and brain disorders

Leader(s): Dr Nellie Georgiou-Karistianis

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit examines common neurological conditions that result in behavioural dysfunction, and imaging techniques that can assist their diagnosis. The first five weeks examine the applications, limitations and theoretical bases of X-ray imaging, CT, angiography, PET, MRI, FMRI, SPECT, EEG and MEG. The remainder investigates the neurobiological correlates of traumatic brain injury, brain tumours, epilepsies, cerebrovascular disorders, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease and multiple sclerosis. Emphasis will be placed on the impact of these disorders on behaviour and cognition, their diagnosis and treatment, and on aspects of patient care.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit, students will:

1. be familiar with the variety of neuroimaging techniques that are available, and understand the theoretical basis for these technologies and their practical limitations;

2. understand how imaging techniques can assist the diagnosis of some neurological disorders, and be able to interpret some of the features revealed by these images;

3. understand the neurobiological correlates of some common neurological disorders and how they are diagnosed and treated;

4. understand the behavioural and cognitive deficits that accompany some neurological disorders;

5. appreciate the impact of disorders and their treatment from the point of view of patients and their carers;

6. have developed confidence in communicating effectively with clinicians, patients and their carers; and

7. have acquired the ability of writing case reports based on clinical evaluation and interview with patients.

Assessment

Mid-semester written theory examination (short answer and/or MCQ, 1.5 hour): 30%
End of semester written theory examination (MCQ, 1.5 hours): 40%
Web based case study assignment: 7.5%
CT assignment: 7.5%
Case Reports: 15%

Contact hours

6 contact hours + 6 additional hours per week

Prerequisites

BMS1052 or PHY2011 or equivalent by permission

Co-requisites

Must be enrolled in the Bachelor of Behavioural Neuroscience or Bachelor of Biomedical Science.