Learning objectives
Microbiology course is part of the integrated course Pathophysiology and Microbiology.
The objectives of the course are to enable the acquisition of knowledge and understanding about the basics of microbiology (general characters of etiologic agents of infectious diseases, host-pathogen interactions and
pathogenesis of infectious diseases, prophylaxis and therapy, drug resistance mechanisms, nosocomial infections), and provide the ability to apply the knowledge and understanding in occupational contexts (in the approach to the patient with infectious diseases).
At the end of the course, the student, also exploiting the previously acquired knowledge concerning anatomy, biology and physiology, will need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding about the pathophysiological phenomena representing the basic events related to infectious diseases, the etiological agents of infectious diseases and their interactions with the host, the causes and consequences of nosocomial infections.
The student, applying the knowledge and understanding acquired, shall also be able, in collaboration with other professionals, to identify the problems related to infectious diseases and contribute to their prevention.
Prerequisites
Sufficient knowledge of biology, anatomy, biochemistry and physiology are needed to address the topics of the course.
Course unit content
Morphological and structural characteristics of microorganisms and viruses and their replication.
Cultivation of microorganisms and viruses.
Normal microbial population of humans.
Microbial pathogenicity.
Antimicrobial agents.
Important microorganisms and viruses causing diseases in humans.
Laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases.
Full programme
Introduction: microorganisms and viruses.
1.Virology. Morphological and structural characteristics of viruses. Viral replicative cycle. Virus cultivation. Common human viral diseases.
2. Bacteriology. The general characters of bacteria. Host-microbe interactions. Normal microbial population of humans. Microbial pathogenicity. Important pathogenic bacteria. Antimicrobial agents.
3. Parasitology. The general characters of protozoa. Common human protozoa infecting tissues and blood, intestinal and urogenital tracts. Helminths (notes).
4. Mycology. General characters of fungi. Classification of mycoses. Common human mycoses. Antifungal agents.
5. Laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases. Pre-analytical phase: sample collection. Detection and identification of the etiologic agent. Antibody detection. Methods for antibacterial and antifungal susceptibility testing.
Bibliography
Visual aids made available online.
Harvey R.A., Champe P.C., Fisher B.D. Le basi della microbiologia Con approfondimenti clinici. Zanichelli
Teaching methods
Lectures accompanied by visual aids will be used to convey critical information on the topics relating to the course content.
Assessment methods and criteria
Learning outcomes will be verified through an oral examination. Questions on the topics relating to (oppure pertaining to) the course content will be used to test the student’s knowledge and understanding in the field, and her/his ability to apply the knowledge and understanding (in the approach to the patient with infectious diseases.
Other information
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