ML 220 - Topics in Clinical Microbiology

Credit Hours: 1

The lectures will focus on procedures for identification of clinically significant pathogens in specialized areas of microbiology with emphasis on parasitology, virology and mycobacteriology. This course will be updated annually to reflect new disease trends related to the previously listed areas. Students will be required to research emerging pathogens in these areas of microbiology.

Course Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student should will be able to:

Parasitology:
- list the three major groups of parasites: Protozoa, Nematodes, and Platyhelminthes;
- state the genus and species representatives of the four classes of protozoa. Describe the disease each causes, symptoms, the mode of transmission, and the procedure for lab identification, including the main identifying features of each;
- identify the parasitic nematodes and their ova, as well as the diseases, symptoms, mode of transmission, and diagnostic features of each;
- identify the parasitic platyhelminthes including both trematodes and cestodes. Describe the disease associated with each, the symptoms, mode of transmission, and the identifying features of each;
- outline collection procedures for specimens requiring parasitological examination, including the use of preservatives or fixatives; and
- list the main methods used in the lab to prepare clinical specimens for ova and parasite examination. Describe the advantages of each procedure.
Mycobacteriology:
- categorize the various types of Mycobacteria and list representative members;
- describe the microscopic characteristics of mycobacteria;
- define the term acid-fast and review prepared slides of acid-fast bacteria;
- describe specimen handling techniques for mycobacteria with emphasis on the digestion, decontamination, and concentration procedures for sputum specimens;
- list the culture media used to isolate mycobacteria and the proper method for handling in the lab;
- differentiate mycobacterial species using the characteristics of pigment production and growth rate; and
- list the laboratory tests used to identify mycobacterial species.
Virology:
- classify common viral pathogens as either DNA or RNA viruses;
- state the disease or pathologic manifestations of selected viral pathogens;
- describe the guidelines for viral specimen collection and transport; and
- describe laboratory procedures for the diagnosis of viral infections.
Rickettsia, Chlamydia, and Mycoplasma:
- compare the 3 groups of organisms according to their cell structure and metabolic properties;
- describe the significant pathogens in each group; and
- state the appropriate diagnostic procedures for each designated species of Rickettsia, Chlamydia, and Mycoplasma.

Prerequisites: BI 147, BI 148, ML 218, ML 219
S (N)