Biomedical Parasitology

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

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

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.