Learning objectives
The course aims to provide the knowledge for a clear and detailed vision of the aspects of Microbiology and Clinical Virology essential for understanding the biotechnological methodologies applied to laboratory diagnosis. The course aims to foster the ability to combine basic and specialized scientific knowledge on infections from bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses with the most advanced technologies for the diagnosis of infectious diseases.
The fundamental objective of the course is to provide knowledge relating to the main laboratory methodologies and technologies aimed at diagnosing infections caused by bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses and to stimulate the ability to understand the diagnostic strategies adopted on the basis of biological and molecular characteristics and pathogenicity of the most important infectious agents and the host response to infections.
The course also aims to provide the ability to apply the knowledge acquired through participation in practical diagnostic laboratory activities (interactive teaching activity for small groups of students), as well as to provide the critical ability necessary to evaluate future evolution knowledge in the sector.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
The first lessons concern general topics related to the pathogenicity of microorganisms and viruses and the pathogenesis of infectious diseases.
The second part of the course is devoted to discussion of the principles and methods for the laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases.
The third part of the course deals with the natural history of infections caused by the main etiological agents, laboratory diagnostic methods and the interpretation of the results of microbiological and virological investigations relating to infections affecting the main systems and apparatuses.
Full programme
Pathogenicity of microorganisms and pathogenesis of infectious diseases:
- host-infectious agent relationship: parasitism, infection, disease;
- host-disease relationship: virulence, mechanisms of pathogenicity of microorganisms and viruses;
- the pathogenesis of bacterial infections;
- the pathogenesis of viral infections;
- strategies of microorganisms and viruses to evade host defenses; mutations in viruses, genetic and non-genetic interactions;
- microbial resident population;
- epidemiology of infections: transmission and prevalence of infections, indicators and epidemiological studies;
- the importance of infectious diseases: new, emerging and re-emerging infections.
Principles and methods for the laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases.
- demonstration of the infectious agent and its components in clinical specimens;
- demonstration of a specific immune response;
- medical biotechnology and their applications in the field of laboratory diagnostics;
- collection, transport and storage of clinical specimens for bacteriological, parasitological, mycological and virological examinations.
Notes on the natural history of infections caused by the main etiological agents, pathogenetic aspects, laboratory diagnostic methods, interpretation of the results of microbiological and virological investigations relating to:
- infections of the intestinal tract;
- infections of the respiratory tract;
- infections of the central nervous system;
- infections of the skin;
- genitourinary infections;
- systemic infections;
- prenatal, perinatal and connatal infections;
- infections in immunocompromised host;
- zoonosis and viral infections due to arbovirus.
Bibliography
M. Bendinelli, A. Calderaro, C. Chezzi, G. Dettori, N. Manca, G. Morace, L. Polonelli, M.A. Tufano - Monduzzi Editore - Microbiologia Medica: Batteriologia, Parassitologia, Virologia. Gli agenti infettivi dell'uomo: biologia, azione patogena, laboratorio.
Teaching methods
Lectures will be held on-site in compliance with safety standards, provided that further instructions on the ongoing health emergency are not implemented. Supporting material will be available on the specific, student-reserved platform (Elly) and will include slide presentations and video-recording of the lectures. During the lectures the topics relating to the course content will be illustrated and discussed.
Through practical activity organizational aspects of the laboratory for the diagnosis of infectious diseases will be addressed, results of microbiological and virological investigations observed and discussed, diagnostic procedures at runtime showed and application capabilities exercised in performing some diagnostic assays.
Assessment methods and criteria
Learning outcomes will be verified through an oral examination.
Questions on the topics relating 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 occupational contexts.
Other information
The teacher is available for clarification by making an appointment by e-mail.
