Learning objectives
To give the basic knowledge for the diagnostic laboratory methods for the infectious diseases
Course unit content
Overview of the biological samples their collection, trasportation and preservation procedures overview of the general methods used for the laboratory diagnosis of bacterial, fungal, parasitic and viral infections
-demonstration of the infecting agent or its components directly in the biological sample:
microscopic examination (wet mount, permanent staining); electron microscopy, detection of specific antigens (immunoassay-ELISA-immunofluorescence assay);detection of specific nucleic acids by in situ hybridization assay, polymerase chain reaction (PCR);retrotranscription-PCR assay (RT-PCR), real time PCR;demonstration of an immunoreaction by the detection of specific antibodies usind two serum samples and detection of IgM antibodies.
Overview of the microbiological methods to demonstrate infections by pathogenic spirochaetes (treponema pallidum, borrelia, leptospira)
Overview of the life cycles of some parasites and the laboratory diagnostic methods for the parasitic infections caused by protozoa (Toxoplasma gondii, free-living amoebaeAcanthamoeba and Naegleria, Trichomonas vaginalis, leishmania, elmints (Taenia solium, Taenia saginata, Echinococcus, nematode, Trichinella spp.)
Overview of the most frequent used methods to prevent and control the infections: specific and non specific immunoprofilaxis including passive and active immunization.
Bibliography
M.Bendinelli, C.Chezzi, G. Dettori, N. Manca, G. Morace, L. Polonelli, M.A. Tufano-MICROBIOLOGIA MEDICA: Batteriologia, Micologia, Virologia. Gli agenti infettivi dell'uomo: biologia, azione patogena, laboratorio. MONDUZZI EDITORE.
Teaching methods
Oral and practical lesson