LQB683 Diagnostic Cytopathology

Unit Outline: Semester 2 2024, Gardens Point, Internal

Overview

The goal of cytopathology is to predict the underlying histology of lesions using small samples obtained by minimally invasive methods. The results are used to direct patient management and often involve the integration of diagnostic tests you have developed and applied in earlier units, such as histology, immunohistochemistry and molecular pathology. This unit builds on the knowledge and practical skills you have gained in LSB466 and LSB566 to expand your practical/technical and diagnostic skills. This unit prepares you for employment in a diagnostic cytopathology laboratory and introduces the types of specimens reported, methods of processing applied and the cytological features used to diagnose tumours and benign conditions.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Describe the collection and preparation methods and the instruments routinely used in cytopathology laboratories.
2. Describe the anatomy, histology and cytology of common neoplasms and benign conditions of the female genital, urinary and respiratory tracts and the breast, thyroid and lymph nodes.
3. Correctly identify normal and abnormal cellular components and common pathogens found in cytological preparations and appropriate confirmatory tests.
4. Demonstrate appropriate professional ethics in the practice of medical laboratory science and knowledge relating to occupational health and safety and quality assurance in cytopathology.

Content

Learning Approaches

This unit is based on a lecture, tutorial and a practical class each week. Practical classes will provide experience with the common preparation methods and in the microscopic interpretation of 'real life' specimens. Microscope sessions will allow you to apply your learning and to develop and demonstrate your diagnostic skills. This unit will use a blend of face to face and online learning. You will be expected to actively engage with, and take responsibility for, self-directed learning. Relevant learning materials such as images, microscope videos and quizzes are accessible via Canvas. These are designed to consolidate your knowledge and give immediate feedback on your learning. Cytological slide sets are available during private study times and image-based quizzes are also available to assist with your learning and test your knowledge and interpretive skills. Some practicals will also involve case-based tutorials designed to develop problem-solving skills and integrate clinical information with microscopic features.

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

A progress quiz will be held mid Semester and you will receive feedback on your performance. Formative practical assessments are run weekly and feedback will be provided each practical class. Canvas resources, such as a image quizzes, will allow you to monitor your progress and identify areas you may need to concentrate. A practice exam will also be held prior to the final practical examination to familiarise you with the format and help you identify areas requiring more effort.

During, and at the end of Semester, you will have the opportunity to share your experiences and thoughts by providing your feedback on the teaching and content of this unit. Your ideas and suggestions may be used to make changes to the unit (e.g. classroom activities, practicals or assessment) where appropriate to improve the learning outcomes for you and future students.

Assessment

Overview

General Assessment Information
A variety of assessments will be used to allow you to perform in a number of different formats and environments. A mixture of formative and summative assessment will enable you to gauge your progress during the unit, and to develop your skills in areas where you feel you need extra assistance.

Practical Class Attendance and Assessment
Participation in the practical classes is an integral part of your learning experience in LQB683. If you are unable to attend a practical session, you should inform the unit coordinator by email and provide supporting documentation for your absence the following week at the start of practical class, e.g. medical certificate. For approved absences alternate arrangements will be accommodated on up to two occasions. Approved absences in excess of two occasions will need to be discussed with the unit coordinator. In the case of unapproved absence from practicals, no marks will be given for related assessment.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Progress Exam

This quiz covers the core knowledge and skills of the unit and provides you with excellent feedback on your progress in the unit. (formative and summative)

Assessment: Examination (practical)

Microscopic spot test, case reports and screening test (formative and summative)

Assessment: Examination (written)

This examination assesses your ability to apply diagnostic criteria in a variety of clinical settings, to frame appropriate differential diagnoses and ensure the quality of cytodiagnosis.

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to engage in learning and assessment at QUT with honesty, transparency and fairness. Maintaining academic integrity means upholding these principles and demonstrating valuable professional capabilities based on ethical foundations.

Failure to maintain academic integrity can take many forms. It includes cheating in examinations, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, and submitting an assessment item completed by another person (e.g. contract cheating). It can also include providing your assessment to another entity, such as to a person or website.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Further details of QUT’s approach to academic integrity are outlined in the Academic integrity policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Breaching QUT’s Academic integrity policy is regarded as student misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Requirements to Study

Costs

Cost of obtaining lab gown and safety glasses is the responsibility of the student.

Resources

Resource Materials

Recommended text(s)

Keebler, C., & Reagan, J. (1985). Manual of Cytotechnology (6th ed.). ASCP Press.

There is no prescribed text, however these are available in the library.

DeMay, R. (1996). Art and Science of Cytopathology. ASCP Press.

Safety and protective equipment

Practicals will require personal protective equipment supplied by each student:
1. Laboratory Gown - Rear fastening 100% cotton or polyester/cotton mix
2. Safety eye protection glasses - selected and used in accordance with Australian Safety Standards
3. Fully enclosed non-slip shoes

Risk Assessment Statement

This unit includes a laboratory component. In order that you become proficient in necessary practical skills, you will be trained in the handling of equipment, materials and specimens normally associated with this discipline. You are required to view a Health & Safety Induction video and complete an online health and safety quiz prior to being permitted into the laboratory, to access please follow this link Health & Safety Induction. A passing score of 10/10 is required and will be checked prior to entry to the first laboratory session. You may repeat the quiz until this score is achieved. You are also referred to the Faculty of Health's Health & Safety Web Site for further information.

If you have an underlying health condition you are encouraged to consult the lecturer in charge of the unit, as you may be required to take additional precautions on occasions.

Course Learning Outcomes

LS47 Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science

1. Discipline Knowledge
   Relates to: Progress Exam, Examination (practical), Examination (written)
2. Professional (including OHS and QA) Knowledge
   Relates to: Examination (practical), Examination (written)
3. Technical proficiency
   Relates to: Progress Exam
4. Interpretation and application of protocols
   Relates to: Progress Exam, Examination (practical), Examination (written)
5. Analysis and interpretation of data
   Relates to: Progress Exam, Examination (practical), Examination (written)
6. Synthesis, judgement, and explanation
   Relates to: Progress Exam, Examination (practical), Examination (written)
7. Scientific communication skills including information literacy and numeracy
   Relates to: Examination (practical)
8. Quality assurance
   Relates to: Progress Exam, Examination (written)