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Physiologic Basis of Diseases

Course Description

Physiology is the study of normal body functions. Deviations from normal functions of organs/systems would lead to disease states. This course studies the mechanisms that progress to diseases from physiologic perspectives. The topics include diseases in the digestive, endocrine, muscle, respiratory, renal, and cardiovascular systems. An introductory physiology course is required.

Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Scientific literature relevant to topics will be required for students taking the graduate level of Physiologic Basis of Diseases.

Athena Title

Physiologic Basis of Diseases

Equivalent Courses

Not open to students with credit in VPHY 4200E or VPHY 6200E

Prerequisite

VPHY 3100 or VPHY 3100E or VPHY 3107-3107D or CBIO 2210-2210L or CBIO 3710 or EHSC 2100 or PMCY 3000 or PMCY 3000E or POUL 4175 or POUL 4200/6200-4200L/6200L or WILD 4400/6400

Grading System

A - F (Traditional)

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Understanding the mechanisms that lead to functional alteration in organs/systems. Through this learning process, students will appreciate normal body functions at deeper levels.
  • Perceiving that the functions of different body systems are interrelated. The disease cases to be discussed will facilitate students’ abilities to view how the body works from its holistic aspects.
  • Developing the analytical skills necessary to integrate their preexisting knowledge in physiology. Students will then have the foundation to reason through the processes of new functional alterations they are to face.

Topical Outline

  • Peptic ulcer – the failure of protecting gastric mucosa
  • Acute pancreatitis – the digestive enzymes that target the body’s own tissue
  • Hyperthyroidism – the consequence of elevated basal metabolic rate
  • Myasthenia gravis – the loss of communication between nerve and muscle
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases – the problems with gas exchange
  • Glomerulonephritis – the fading ability of kidneys to filter blood
  • Diabetes mellitus – the alteration in insulin functions
  • Disseminated intravascular coagulation – the issues in excessive blood clotting
  • Circulatory shock – the problems with sudden decreases in blood volume
  • Stroke – the brain neurons’ constant need for oxygen
  • Atherosclerosis – the imbalance of fat metabolism and reactive oxygen species
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