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