PD508M.3
Clinical Genetics
Sites: MGH
Director(s): Nina Gold, Alberto Puig
Prerequisites: HMS Principal Clinical Experience (Core Clinical Clerkships) or equivalent
Offered: Full time for one month. Not offered July and August.
Location: MGH - Mass. General Hospital (3)
Open to Exclerks: Yes (may be restricted for international students)
Description: This course introduces students to the principles of human genetics and teratology and how these principles relate to patient care. The teaching focuses on consultations with children and adults evaluated in the daily Genetics Clinic, the Prenatal Diagnosis Center and in-patient consultations. Students learn how to carry out diagnostic evaluations and to provide counseling for all types of genetic disorders. They will participate in the management of inborn errors of metabolism, mitochondrial conditions, disorders in adults and human teratogens. Students observe in Specialty Clinics for neurofibromatosis, Huntington Disease, Williams Syndrome, Von Hippel-Lindau Disease and other genetic disorders.
Incorporation of Basic Science Content and Evidence-Based Medicine:
The student is expected to put each clinical case in the context of relevant basic science. Literature reviews are expected, which focus on evidence-based studies.
Grade Criteria:
Honors with Distinction:
The student's fund of medical knowledge, his/her ability to review the published information and to develop a strategy for diagnostic testing. They are expected to observe counseling and to identify the issues involved.
Honors:
High honors is rarely given, as seldom does a medical student have the knowledge base and experience needed. Honors is used for outstanding performance in all aspects.
Satisfactory:
The student who has done an adequate job in all aspects of the elective.
Unsatisfactory:
The student fails to attend consistently or fails to carry out the activities expected.