The aim of this coursework is to show evidence of an understanding of critical thinking, clinical reasoning and evidence based practice, with the focus being on imaging used for diagnosis.

You are asked to produce a fictitious case study of a patient presenting with a suspected pathology that can be placed in one of the following areas:
• Cardiovascular system (heart & blood vessels)
• Central nervous system (brain & spinal cord)
• Alimentary (digestive) system
• Urinary system.
• Respiratory system.
• The reproductive system

The choice of pathology can be discussed with the module leader at one to one meetings.
The coursework should be structured using the following headings (bold) & subheadings (underlined):
??Introduction

A general introduction informing the reader of the content of the case study.
??Background

Based on your research, this section should contain a brief paragraph giving a fictitious account of the patients? history prior to attending for imaging, ending with the suspected pathology.
??Heading of your chosen pathology (i.e. Heart Failure)
??Aetiology (The science of the cause of disease)

Information about your chosen pathology, including symptoms.
??Diagnosis – This section should form the main body of your work

In this section you are expected to use evidence from research to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of any relevant imaging modalities / procedures that can be used in the diagnosis of the chosen pathology. It is important that you critique the evidence that you are presenting.
??Prognosis (A forecast of the course & duration of a disease)
??Treatment options
??Case

A fictitious account of your patient?s pathway, this should show evidence of clinical reasoning by taking into account the information already presented on methods of diagnosis and linking this with your fictitious patients circumstances (i.e. age / stage of disease etc.) and also the fictitious practice context (i.e. availability of modalities). Reference to published patient pathway guidelines (e.g. SIGN guidelines) are expected.
??Conclusion

A fictitious account of your patient?s journey since diagnosis, based on your research into the effects of the pathology on those who suffer from it.