Course overview
The aim of this course is to provide students with advanced knowledge of biochemical basis of disease, specialised laboratory testing and associated analytical methods and interpretation and communication of biochemical data as applied in the current clinical biochemistry laboratory. Principles of specialised analytical techniques used in the clinical biochemistry laboratory; proteins in body fluids; cardiac disorders and biomarkers; hormone actions and control of hormone secretions; quality assurance; functional testing of thyroid and adrenal hormones; lipoproteins and lipoproteinaemias; point of care testing, emergency pathology.
Course learning outcomes
- Critically evaluate and interpret the patterns of plasma protein abnormalities shown in serum protein electrophoresis.
- Explain the biochemical basis of endocrine and cardiovascular disorders and identify which laboratory tests may be performed to diagnose them.
- Perform specialised laboratory testing using patient samples and critically analyse and interpret the laboratory findings in the context of existing literature.
- Characterize the principles of point of care testing and emergency pathology and explain their application in the current clinical chemistry laboratory.
- Demonstrate advanced skills in the interpretation of biochemical data used for investigation of disease, through interpreting case studies.
- Prepare concise scientific reports compatible with publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Degree list
The following degrees include this course