Biomedical Parasitology

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Explain the human/veterinary pathology caused by the main clinically relevant parasites
• Explain interaction and evasion methods used by parasites in respect to the immune system and chemical control
• Give examples of host:parasite coevolution
• Explain the lifecycles of the main clinically relevant parasite classes
• Give examples of the possible benefits gained by parasitism
• Explain possible changes in parasite risk the UK due to environmental change
• Give examples of vector borne disease, where parasitism is significant in the disease
• Explain the treatment methods/ prevention utilising both the primary and where applicable intermediate hosts and environment

1/ Definition of parasite and parasitology and understanding of their worldwide and UK importance for human/ animal health and their role in current hygiene policy

2/ An understanding of the main classes of human parasite and examples of the most relevant parasite induced diseases including- Kinetoplastids (trypanosomes), Plasmodia, Amoebia, Helminths (Cestodes-tape worms, Schistosomes, Nematodes), Ectoparasites (insects -lice, fleas etc, Arachnia -ticks / mites)

3/ Examples of the various methods of pharmacological treatment in the host, also other protective counter measures

4/ Parasites effects on the immune system and parasite immune evasion

5/ Examples of parasite and host interactions and co-evolution (eg Cat-Mouse-Human behaviour and Toxoplasma)

6/ Effects of climate change on parasite risk

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures

Seminars

Practical session

Poster session/ student presentations

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.