Overview

This module will provide in-depth information on the development and application of analytical techniques used in clinical biochemistry for diagnosis, monitoring and to detect complications of disease. The metabolic and clinical aspects of disease, selection of appropriate investigations and interpretation of results are discussed.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Category D (40%-49%):A threshold student should have basic knowledge of the essential facts, principles and clinical significance of key investigations presented in the module. Written answers should demonstrate an ability to organise relevant lecture material into a coherent argument. For the practical reports, the student must demonstrate a basic understanding of the aims and objectives of the experiment and be able to present and interpret the data in a satisfactory manner.

-good -Category B (60%-69%):A good student should have a thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module, integrated with a comprehensive understanding of the analytical principles and clinical significance of investigations presented in the module. Written answers should demonstrate an ability to think critically about the subject and to synthesise the lecture materials. For the practical reports, the student must demonstrate the ability to relate data to various clinical conditions, to critically evaluate the experimental data.

-excellent -Category A (70% - 100%):An excellent student should have a thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module, integrated with a comprehensive understanding of the analytical principles and clinical significance of investigations presented in the module. Written answers should demonstrate an ability to think critically about the subject and to synthesise lecture material and information from background reading. For the practical reports, the student must additionally demonstrate ability to relate data to various clinical conditions, to critically evaluate the experimental data and have incorporated material into reports which has been gleaned from external sources.Evidence of wider reading & critical thinking is required for A+ and A* marks.

-another level-Category C (50%-59%):A less engaged student should have a correct understanding of the essential facts, principles and clinical significance of key investigations presented in the module. Written answers should demonstrate an ability to organise relevant lecture material into a coherent argument. Answers may lack context and explanation. No evidence of wider reading.For the practical reports, the student must demonstrate a sound understanding of the aims and objectives of the experiment and be able to present and interpret the data in a satisfactory manner.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically discuss the principles of some analytical investigations performed in clinical biochemistry laboratories and their clinical significance.

• Critically evaluate the role of clinical biochemistry investigations in diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease.

• Evaluate the role of the laboratory in therapeutic drug monitoring and screening for drugs of abuse, critically discuss the methods used.

• Identify the significance of the physiology and pathophysiology of the major organ systems under investigation in clinical biochemistry.

• Obtain, interpret and synthesise information from background reading and use it to effectively supplement lecture notes.