Under the guidance of Helen Amerongen, Ph.D., research assistant professor, and Maria Czuzak, Ph.D., anatomic instructor, of the UA Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, the students will attempt to identify 10 slides of tissues by comparing what they see in the microscope with an atlas of 10 organs. After identifying the normal histology of those 10 organs, students will be presented with two pathologic specimens on a five-headed microscope and video monitor. The students will attempt to identify the organ based on what normal tissue remains. Then they will describe the abnormality and speculate on what it might mean to the patient. The session is part of the MMEP participants' introduction to histology, the study of tissues and cells.
Histology is the basis for understanding physiologic and pathologic processes.
Normal microscopic anatomy is presented to medical students in their first semester and is one of the foundations of clinical diagnosis, along with gross anatomy. All fields of medicine rely on pathologists to interpret biopsied and surgically removed material and the referring physician also should be familiar with microscopic structure. Fifty undergraduates from the Western United States are participating in this year's MMEP, which is being held through July 10 . Activities include review sessions for the Medical College Admissions Test and science course preview sessions, clinical experiences with UA College of Medicine or community physicians, and regular interaction with medical students, physicians and guest speakers to learn about specialties, medical ethics and current issues. MMEP offers guidance in selecting medical schools and the application process, as well as mock interviews and recruitment visits from medical school representatives.