Course overview
The aim of this course is to develop an understanding the pathophysiology of selected disorders and the modification of these processes through manipulation of pharmacological pathways. The pathophysiology and pharmacology relevant to infectious diseases including; microbial structure and pathogenesis, anti-infective agents and their spectrum of activity, and the mechanisms of drug resistance.
The principles immunization, types of vaccines and the application to vaccine preventable diseases.
The pathophysiology and pharmacology relevant to the immune system and autoimmune diseases including; rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis).
The pathophysiology and pharmacology relevant to cancer including; processes of mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, cytotoxic chemotherapy drugs, targeted cancer therapies and specific supportive care to manage associated toxicities (G-CSF).
Course learning outcomes
- Describe the micro-organisms which cause human disease and explain the mode of action of anti-infective agents and the mechanism leading to the development of resistance to these drugs
- Explain the structure and function of the immune system, concepts of cellular response to stimuli as it relates to the pathogenesis of immune diseases and vaccination
- Explain the pathophysiology, mechanism of drug action and resultant adverse effects of inflammatory auto-immune conditions
- Explain the pathophysiology, mechanism of drug action and resultant adverse effects cytotoxic chemotherapy and targeted anticancer agents.
- Describe the consequences of and explain the mechanism of drug-drug interactions for specific drug classes