536-021 Physiology - 2nd Year M.B.,B.S.

Credit Points

Coordinator

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

On completion of this subject, students should (i) understand the functions of the major organ systems and the mechanisms by which these different organ systems are controlled in the normal human being (ii) develop observational and organisational skills in investigating physiological systems and analytical skills for evaluating physiological experimental data (iii) appreciate the ranges of normality for physiological parameters and the factors influencing the significance of results obtained from investigating physiological systems. Major topics covered: Nutrition, whole body metabolism; digestive tract motility; digestion and absorption of foodstuffs; temperature regulation; lung mechanics; gas exchange and transport; respiratory control; renal function; regulation of electrolyte and water balance; acid-base balance; properties of blood cells; control of blood cell formation; haemostasis.

Assessment

A 3-hour written examination at the end of the first semester covering both semesters of the Physiology course (85%). Assessment is also based on work undertaken in laboratory classes (15%). Where performance in laboratory classes is judged to be unsatisfactory, a student will be required to pass a supplementary oral or practical examination.

Prescribed Texts

• Berne R M & Levy M N, Physiology. 3rd ed., Mosby 1993.
• Berne R M & Levy M N, Case Studies in Physiology. Mosby.