ERIE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
NORTH CAMPUS
COURSE OUTLINE
A.
Unit Code and
Suggested Course Title:
2188
ML 220-Topics in Clinical Microbiology
B.
Curriculum/Program:
Clinical Laboratory Technician
C.
Catalog Description:
The lectures will focus on procedures for identification of clinically significant pathogens in
specialized areas of microbiology with emphasis on parasitology, virology and mycology.
This course will be updated annually to reflect new disease trends related to the previously
listed areas. Students will be required to research emerging pathogens in these areas of
microbiology.
Prerequisites: BI 110, BI 115, ML 218, ML 219 or BI 230, BI 231.
S (N)
D.
Duration of
Instructional Period:
50 minutes per week, 1 class meeting per week, 15 weeks
E.
Academic Credit Hours:
Contact Hours:
1.0
1.0
(1-0-1)
F.
Suggested Text/
Course Materials:
A Photographic Atlas for the Microbiology
Laboratory, by Michael J. Leboffe and Burton E. Pierce
Diagnostic Microbiology: A Study Guide, by
Margaret A. Bartelt
Supplemental handouts provided by instructor.
Reference Text: Medical Parasitology: A Self
Instructional Text, by R. Leventhal and R. Cheadle
G.
Course Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1.
3/08
PARASITOLOGY
a.
List the three major groups of parasites: Protozoa, Nematodes, and
Platyhelminthes.
b.
State the genus and species representatives of the four classes of protozoa.
Describe the disease each causes, symptoms, the mode of transmission, and the
procedure for lab identification, including the main identifying features of each.
c.
Identify the parasitic nematodes and their ova, as well as the diseases, symptoms,
mode of transmission, and diagnostic features of each.
1
d.
e.
f.
H.
Identify the parasitic platyhelminthes including both trematodes and cestodes.
Describe the disease associated with each, the symptoms, mode of transmission,
and the identifying features of each.
Outline collection procedures for specimens requiring parasitological
examination, including the use of preservatives or fixatives.
List the main methods used in the lab to prepare clinical specimens for ova and
parasite examination. Describe the advantages of each procedure.
2.
MYCOBACTERIOLOGY
a.
Categorize the various types of Mycobacteria and list representative members.
b.
Describe the microscopic characteristics of mycobacteria.
c.
Define the term acid-fast and review prepared slides of acid-fast bacteria.
d.
Describe specimen handling techniques for mycobacteria with emphasis on the
digestion, decontamination, and concentration procedures for sputum specimens.
e.
List the culture media used to isolate mycobacteria and the proper method for
handling in the lab.
f.
Differentiate mycobacterial species using the characteristics of pigment
production and growth rate.
g.
List the laboratory tests used to identify mycobacterial species.
3.
VIROLOGY
a.
Classify common viral pathogens as either DNA or RNA viruses.
b.
State the disease or pathologic manifestations of selected viral pathogens.
c.
Describe the guidelines for viral specimen collection and transport.
d.
Describe laboratory procedures for the diagnosis of viral infections.
4.
RICKETTSIA, CHLAMYDIA, AND MYCOPLASMA
a.
Compare the 3 groups of organisms according to their cell structure
and metabolic properties.
b.
Describe the significant pathogens in each group.
c.
State the appropriate diagnostic procedures for each designated species
of Rickettsia, Chlamydia, and Mycoplasma.
Program Competencies:
Upon graduation with an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Clinical Laboratory
Technician, the graduate will be able to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
3/08
Perform all of the routine tests in a modern clinical laboratory or research facility.
(1-4)
Follow prescribed procedures, performs routine analytical tests in chemistry,
hematology, hemostasis, immunology, immunohematology, and microbiology.
Perform, record, and evaluate all quality control procedures required for the tests
assayed. (1-4)
Recognize abnormal or unusual test results. (1-4)
Perform related work as assigned. (1-4)
2
6.
I.
Demonstrate behavior consistent with acceptable professional conduct standards, such
as appearance, quality of work, human relation skills, leadership skills, reading skills,
writing skills, and verbal communications skills.
SUNY General Education Knowledge and Skills Areas:
Not applicable to course offerings in Health Science Division.
J.
ECC Learning Outcomes (LO):
1. Information Literacy (1-4)
2. Scientific Reasoning (1-4)
K.
Student Learning:
K1. Evaluation of Student Learning: Achievement of the course objectives may be
measured by hourly exams (preferably at the conclusion of each topic) and homework
assignments. The final grade will be calculated as follows:
 Three exams (33.3% each) 100%
K2. Assessment of Student Learning: The methods of evaluation should be consistent with
the level of the course and meet criteria as set forth by the Accreditation Agencies to include
cognitive levels, I, II, and III, as well as, affective and psychomotor skills appropriate to the
course.
L.
Library Resources:
The students are encouraged to read current literature on related topics in the area of
microbiology.
M.
Topical Outline:
Instructional Unit
3/08
Instructional Periods
1.
Parasitology
a.
Classification and description of parasitic protozoa
b.
Observation of prepared slides of pathogenic protozoa
c.
Classification and description of parasitic nematodes
d.
Observation of prepared slides and nematode specimens
e.
Classification and description of parasitic platyhelminthes
f.
Observations of prepared slides and platyhelminth specimens
g.
Laboratory techniques for identification and isolation of
parasites from clinical specimens
2.
Mycobacteriology
a.
Classification of Mycobacteria
b.
Acid-fast stain
c.
Specimen handling techniques
d.
Identification tests
7 weeks
3 weeks
3
3.
N.
3/08
Virology
a.
Classification of viruses
b.
State the disease or pathologic manifestations of selected
viral pathogens
c.
Guidelines for specimen collection and transport
d.
Laboratory diagnosis of viral infections
3 weeks
4.
Rickettsia, Chlamydia, and Mycoplasma
a.
General characteristics of the three groups
b.
Significant species and diseases produced
c.
Laboratory diagnosis
1 week
5.
Evaluation
2 weeks
Proposal Prepared by:
Date Prepared:
Date Last Updated:
CLT/MA Faculty
April 2014
March 2008
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