Pathophysiology of the Lung

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Describe the clinical symptoms and cellular pathology underlying cystic fibrosis.
• Describe the main characteristics of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and current hypotheses pertaining to its pathology.
• Discuss the concepts and technical approaches to cystic fibrosis therapy.
• Identify the cells responsible for the synthesis of immunoglobulin E
• Identify the problems associated with treating COPD and some of the potential therapeutic strategies.
• Discuss our current understanding of the influence of early life factors on the development of allergic disease.
• Identify the major pharmacological targets available to treat allergy and asthma and emerging therapeutic targets.
• Explain the role of mast cells and eosinophils in allergic disease.
• Discuss the impact of viral and bacterial infections on chronic lung diseases

The unit comprises lectures on the risk factors, pathophysiology and therapy for three very common but distinct lung diseases, asthma, COPD and cystic fibrosis. We will examine current therapies and the development of new approaches based on our understanding of the underlying disease mechanisms. In addition to an in depth exploration of pulmonary disease pathology we will examine the role of early life factors such as infections and genetics influences the outcomes in chronic lung disease.

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures and independent study

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.