This unit (RBM2530) provides students with an understanding of the control and co-ordination of body systems and the effects of disturbances to body functions. Students are introduced to major pathologic processes which may affect all parts of the body. Topics include immunopathology and inflammation; cancer from the molecular level to the whole person; endocrinology and cardiovascular disease. In the laboratory sessions students will apply scientific principles to the assessment of dysfunction in humans. Students are also introduced to the research literature, research techniques and the interpretation of case studies. Students will learn that pathophysiology encompasses the entire spectrum of diseases ranging from diagnosis, epidemiology, pathology, clinical manifestations and treatment.

Unit details

Location:
Footscray Park
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
RBM2530

Prerequisites

RBM1518 - Human Physiology 1

RBM1528 - Human Physiology 2

OR: RBM1174 Human Physiology and SCL1002 Exercise Physiology for students enrolled in the Clinical Exercise stream of the Human Movement and Education degree or equivalent. OR: RBM1103 Bioscience 1 and RBM1202 Bioscience 2 for students enrolled in HBHL Bachelor of Health Science.

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Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Investigate pathological processes including inflammation and immunopathology, neoplasia, endocrine and cardiovascular disorders;  
  2. Integrate underpinning knowledge of pathophysiology to disease presentation and progression;  
  3. Contextualise the pathophysiological basis for medical and lifestyle interventions in the treatment or management of disease; and  
  4. Apply scientific and pathology principles in the investigation of disease.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Test Multiple choice and short answer (40 mins) 20%
Report Lab report (1000 words) 40%
Exercise Case study (1000 word equivalence) 40%

Required reading

Pathophysiology: The Biologic Basis for Disease in Adults and Children 8th ed.
McCance, K.L. and Huether, S.E., (2019)
St Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

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