Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

The unit begins with safety, serological techniques and laboratory diagnosis of infectious disease. An introduction to the pathogenicity of micro-organisms and the epidemiology of infectious disease follows. Infectious diseases of the organ systems are then covered, with aetiology, pathogenesis and laboratory identification of pathogens being emphasised. Chemotherapy discusses the mode of action of antimicrobial drugs, their use in treating infectious disease and the problem of drug resistance. Finally, examples of biotechnology in the microbiology diagnostic laboratory are investigated.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will be able to describe and perform techniques used in diagnostic serology; show an understanding of how microbes cause disease with particular emphasis on bacterial and viral pathogenicity; discuss the epidemiology of infectious disease; show a competence in laboratory procedures for handling and processing microbiological specimens; list and discuss diseases associated with various organ systems; show a basic understanding of antimicrobial chemotherapy; review aspects of biotechnology of diagnostic microbiological significance.

Assessment

Final written examination (3 hours): 60%
Assignment (2000 words) 10%.
Laboratory reports: 30% (comprising project: 10%, diagnostic lab: 15%, two lab reports: 5%)

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Jenny Mosse

Contact hours

Three hours of lectures/tutorials and 3 hours laboratory classes per week

Off-campus attendance requirements

OCL students will attend a 5-day residential school (offered in even numbered years)

Prerequisites

BTH2722 or MIC2011

Prohibitions

BTH3787, MIC3022, MIC3032, MIC3802