Interpretation of Lab Data

Catalog Description:  Studies show that clinical laboratory testing is the basis for making a diagnosis in the majority of patients. But what is the most effective way to use the laboratory? Which tests offer the most information? What do laboratory test results mean? What are the limitations of laboratory testing?

This course is designed for 3rd and 4th year medical students who are faced with the challenge of bringing the extensive diagnostic capabilities of the clinical laboratory to bear on specific clinical problems. With a strongly case-oriented, clinical approach, we will review the pathophysiology of common diseases as it relates to interpretation of laboratory testing, indicate the correct ordering strategies for laboratory tests, and discuss the interpretation of laboratory results. Areas that we will focus on include cardiac, renal, hepatic and endocrine testing; therapeutic drug monitoring; clinical hematology including coagulation; infectious diseases; transfusion medicine; and molecular and cytogenetics.
This course is highly recommended for students who intend to pursue careers in primary care who will be ordering laboratory tests as a routine part of their practice. Those who plan a career in specialties such as surgery, anesthesiology and psychiatry will also find this course very useful. Previous students have reported that this course is an excellent and broad review in preparation for the USMLE exams.

Syllabus

Note: Contact the Course Coordinator for any syllabi for previous years. 

Sites: 

View site addresses by clicking on the site name below or visiting the site codes table.

Required session attendance:

Typical weekly schedule/Delivery Mode:  M-F, 8:00am-12:30pm, lectures and discussion (individual study in the afternoons), no night or weekend assignments

Direct patient care:  No

Consent Requirement: Open to student scheduling

Grading Scale:  P/N

Allow Repetition of course:  Repetition not allowed

Course equivalency:  Does not apply