PP5251 - Systemic Pathophysiology and Therapeutics

The Systemic Pathophysiology and Therapeutics subject builds on the basic concepts of physiology to explain how the normal functioning of the human body can become altered in the disease state. Disorders affecting major organ systems in the body, namely the cardiovascular, respiratory, genitourinary, gastrointestinal, and endocrine systems will be studied. The nervous system is covered separately in Neuropharmacology (PP3252:03). Having examined the basis for abnormal function in disease, we then explore how drug treatments may be used to help restore normal function. In addition to the theoretical basis for drug intervention, the practical considerations of managing these treatments will also be discussed.

Learning Outcomes

• Interpret the pathways through which normal organ function is transformed in the disease state;
• Evaluate the biochemical and functional imbalances that underlie pathophysiological changes in organ function;
• Perform, analyse and interpret commonly used clinical diagnostic tests;
• Determine which drug treatments may be used to correct these biochemical and functional imbalances, helping to restore normal function;
• Describe the mechanism of action of these therapeutic drugs.

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (45%) - Individual
• Written > Poster - (25%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration - (30%) - Individual.

Special Assessment Requirements

Obtain 40% or greater in BOTH the Practical Examination AND the Final Examination; Satisfactory completion of oncourse assessment; A pass mark of 40% or greater overall for oncourse assessment items is considered Satisfactory

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.