Undergraduate - UnitBTH3722 - Medical microbiology

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

BTH3722 focuses on infectious diseases of the organ systems, summarising the aetiology, pathogenesis and laboratory identification of important pathogens. The epidemiology of infectious disease and strategies for disease control are highlighted. The mode of action of antimicrobial drugs, their role in treating infectious disease and the problems of drug resistance are discussed. Techniques for laboratory diagnosis of infectious disease, and safe handling of pathogens, are emphasised.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students will be able to explain how microbes cause disease, with particular emphasis on bacterial and viral pathogenicity; discuss the epidemiology of infectious disease; discuss the role of chemotherapy and the importance of drug resistance in the treatment of infectious disease; describe the role of microorganisms in selected infectious diseases associated with the different organ systems; discuss relevant diagnostic techniques used in clinical microbiology laboratories; describe and perform techniques used in diagnostic serology; and demonstrate competence in laboratory procedures for handling and processing microbiological specimens.

Assessment

Final written examination (3 hours): 60%
Assignment (2000 words) 10%.
Laboratory work: 30% (comprising performance: 10%, one full report: 5%, diagnostic lab worksheets and discussion: 7.5%, and project worksheets and discussion: 7.5%)

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

MIC2011

Prohibitions

MIC3041