BI3BDI2-Diagnostics and Nuclear Medicine

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Module Convenor: Dr Lindsey Thompson

Email: lindsey.thompson@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module is designed for students with an interest in medical science with basic knowledge of physics. Lectures will provide a broad summary of the function and use of diagnostic tools while practical sessions will give students a chance to gain some ‘hands on’ experience. The module will be co delivered by clinicians at the Royal Berkshire hospital.

Aims:

Lectures will provide an opportunity for students to understand the principles behind the main scanning devices used in medicine and the interpretation of images associated with common medical conditions. Associated practical/tutorial sessions will allow students to experience a range of diagnostic devices both within the University and at the RBH. They will also have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and develop skills such as evaluation, scientific calculations, experimental design, data collection and analysis. 

Further aims include:

• To provide an opportunity to develop problem solving skills.


• To provide an illustration of the link between technology and diagnosis.


• To enable students to evaluate a range of diagnostic options.


• To provide students with experience in a hospital setting.


• To provide students with experience in relating images to real life health issues.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Explain how Ultrasound can be used to create a range of different scans from static images to those enabling the measurement of blood flow in the body.


• Recognise and interpret ultrasound images.


• Describe the production and attenuation of X rays, and the production of an x ray image including the basic principles of CCD.


• Recognise and interp ret X-ray images of common disorders and treatment options.


• Explain how x-rays can be used to produce a CAT scan and compare CAT scans to conventional x rays.


• Explain how the principle of resonance can lead to the production of MRI scans.


• Recognise and interpret MRI scans of common disorders and treatment options.


• Explain how PET scans are created using the principle of annihilation. Recognise and interpret PET scans of common disor ders and explain why they are commonly taken in conjunction with CAT scans.


• Describe the construction of the gamma camera and evaluate appropriate radioisotopes used for imaging.


• Interpret images taken using a gamma camera.


• Describe the effects of radiation on the body and evaluate the use of each diagnostic technique in terms of risks, cost and information provided.


• Explain the principles of nuclear medicine in terms of treatment f or cancer.


• Discuss a range of case studies in terms of imaging and treatment.

Additional outcomes:

Students should obtain an understanding of the application of physical concepts, they will gain practical experience of techniques and will have the opportunity to work as part of a team.

Outline content:

This module will provide a fundamental understanding of the common diagnostic techniques in medicine. Basic key ideas and skills will be considered and related specifically to human health. Students will engage in a series of lectures, tutorials and practicals that will provide competence in recognising, evaluating and analysing diagnostic tools. There will be approximately 5-10 hours of practicals based at the University and Royal Berks Hospital.

Sample lecture content includes:< /p>

•   Ultrasound


• X rays and CAT scans


• MRI


• PET


• Radiation effects on the body


• Evaluation of techniques.


• Nuclear medicine

Sample practical content covers:

• Visit to the MRI scanner, experience of a scan and interpretation of images.


• Hospital visits to radiolog y.


• Comparisons of radioactive sources.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

There will be lectures each week for a period of 10 weeks. Practical classes will be provide a hands on opportunity for students to experience each technique in action.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Total hours by term
Total hours for module

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	60
Set exercise	40

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One-and-a half-hours exam

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Late arrivals may not be allowed to join practicals for reasons of safety.

Formative assessment methods:

An MCQ Blackboard test will be released in the 6th week of the course.  Full feedback on each answer is given so students can understand the principles behind each answer.

Penalties for late submission:

The Module Convenor will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day[1] (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-examination in August

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 4 April 2020