The course consists of two components. The first examines the biochemistry of the major metabolic pathways in a traditional lecture format. In the second component, students examine the correlation between laboratory values and diseases associated with various body systems by solving and presenting case studies in a seminar format. On-line links and clinical case presentations will also be part of the course format. Students will be required to complete three library research papers relating current medical microbiology articles to information learned during the course.
Special emphasis is on reading abnormal bone marrow case studies.
Also included is the application of theory of immunology and immunohematology to problem solving in blood banking. This includes case studies involving ABO and Rh typing anomalies, antibody identification and positive direct antiglobulin tests.