HCS307 Assignment 1: Laboratory investigation of haematological malignancies

HCS307 Assignment 1: Laboratory investigation of haematological malignancies Guidelines for writing the assignment Learning outcome: Evaluate the laboratory investigation approach in the diagnosis and monitoring of a patient with chronic myeloid leukaemia. Assessment will be based on the following criteria: Critical analysis and interpretation of laboratory testing - Evaluation of laboratory testing within haematological malignancies - Evidence of understanding - Clarity and validity of reasoning - Support for key points with appropriate evidence Presentation - Structure, formatting, proper headings, spacing, consistent and correct referencing style Instructions: You are asked to answer the following questions regarding the evaluation and laboratory diagnosis and monitoring of a patient with chronic myeloid leukaemia. The assignment will contribute 20% to your final mark. WORD LIMIT 1500 Deadline: Midnight, Sunday 21st February 2016 Questions (mark allocation, %): 1) Explain the pathogenesis of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) (40 %) • The cellular and molecular changes you describe here should complement your explanation of the methodology used to form a diagnosis of CML 2) An investigative approach will start with a haematological profile before using cytogenetic and molecular techniques to confirm a diagnosis and monitor treatment response. Discuss the information which can be provided from the following techniques. Include in your answer typical findings in a patient with CML, limitations of the techniques, and how these techniques are used to evaluate treatment response: a. Full blood count and blood film (10 %) b. Cytogenetic tests (20 %) c. Molecular tests (20 %) Make sure that you reference your work accurately, and remember that the presentation of your work as well as the content will count towards your mark (10 %) You may use the following review article for guidance: Tohami T, Nagler A, Amariglio NA (2012) Laboratory tools for diagnosis and monitoring response in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. IMAJ: 14, 501-507