Human Pathogens

Code School Level Credits Semesters
LIFE4116 Life Sciences 4 20 Autumn UK
Code
LIFE4116
School
Life Sciences
Level
4
Credits
20
Semesters
Autumn UK

Summary

The module will provide an overview of some of the major bacterial, and parasitic human pathogens of clinical importance (viral pathogens are covered in the complementary module LIFE4121; Viral Pathogenesis & Infection). The module will cover the basic microbiology, pathogenesis, clinical symptoms, treatment and prevention of infection. Pathogens covered include Campylobacter Spp; Staphylococcus aureus; Helicobacter pylori; Bacillus Spp; Anaerobes of clinical importance; Coagulase-negative Staphylococci; Pseudomonas aeruginosa; Enterobacteriaceae; Pathogenic Neisseria Spp; Plasmodium Spp; Streptococcus pneumoniae; Escherichia coli & Shigella Spp; Mycobacterium tuberculosis. 

Target Students

The module can be offered as a stand-alone module for CPD purposes to suitably qualified persons (to be determined on a case-by-case basis by the module convenor) and to Year 4 MSci Life Sciences students

Classes

This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc

Assessment

Assessed by end of autumn semester

Educational Aims

To gain knowledge of the major human pathogens of clinical importance, their management and treatment

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and understanding of theoretical aspects of microbial diseases: 
• Details of key human infections, with particular emphasis on medically important bacteria, fungi and parasites. 
• Management of patients with infections. 
• Diagnostic tests carried out in routine and specialised laboratories. 
• Anti-microbial chemotherapy. 

Intellectual skills: 
• Critically assess laboratory results and make decisions on their significance. 
• Understand, assess and assist in management and prevention of outbreaks of communicable diseases. 
• Independently acquire knowledge and utilise it for applied or research purposes

Professional/practical skills: 
• Recognise signs and symptoms of infection and manage patients effectively. 
• Investigate and manage outbreaks of infection in hospitals and community. 

Transferable skills: 
• Work closely with colleagues to advise on clinical scenarios and outbreaks for the delivery of quality care. 
• Use available resources (online resources, computer programmes, specialised services, etc.) effectively. 
• Self-education and analytical self-assessment.

 

Conveners

View in Curriculum Catalogue
Last updated 07/01/2025.