Introductory Haematology

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Abstract

This subject introduces students to haematology and examines the structural and functional attributes of cellular and non-cellular constituents of blood in health and disease states. Morphological and functional characteristics of the blood cells at different stages of production, differentiation and maturation are considered in detail. Also, the haemostatic system, which comprises primary haemostasis, secondary haemostasis and fibrinolytic system, is dealt with thoroughly. Furthermore, blood diseases including anaemias, leucocyte disorders (benign or malignant), and disorders of the haemostasis are discussed at clinical, pathophysiological and laboratory diagnostic levels. The subject is highly practice oriented and prepares the students to work in pathology laboratories. The subject includes a 4 day compulsory intensive for distance students.

Syllabus

Haemopoietic tissues and the production of blood cellsMorphology and function of blood cells Destruction of blood cells Haemoglobin synthesis, structure, function and destructionAnaemias and polycythaemias Benign leucocyte disordersIntroduction to malignant leucocyte disorders including but not limited to leukaemias, multiple myeloma and lymphomasPlatelets, their functions and disordersThe coagulation system and its … For more content click the Read More button below.

Haemopoietic tissues and the production of blood cells
Morphology and function of blood cells
Destruction of blood cells
Haemoglobin synthesis, structure, function and destruction
Anaemias and polycythaemias
Benign leucocyte disorders
Introduction to malignant leucocyte disorders including but not limited to leukaemias, multiple myeloma and lymphomas
Platelets, their functions and disorders
The coagulation system and its disorders
The fibrinolytic system
Anticoagulation therapy and its laboratory monitoring
Routine and special haematology tests including but not limited to complete blood count, blood film examination and coagulation screening tests
Intrepretation of results of laboratory tests in realation to clinical findings of haematological diseases and their diagnoses

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to classify and explain the morphological and functional attributes of blood cells

be able to name and classify the components of the haemostatic system and explain their functions

be able to illustrate and describe the development of blood cells, and comment on structure and functions of the blood- producing tissues/organs

be able to classify and describe the disorders of blood cells

be able to classify and describe the disorders of the haemostatic system

be able to explain principles behind routine haematological tests

be able to interpret the results of haematological tests

be able to demonstrate basic skills necessary to conduct routine haematological techniques

be able to demonstrate high levels of academic communication and team working skills

Enrolment restrictions

Pre-requisite

Learning activities

Residential School