A module which covers the main neurodegenerative disorders: diagnosis and differential diagnosis, neuropsychological testing, psychiatric features of neurodegeneration, and bio/psycho/social management. The 3-day block of the module covers Huntington disease: diagnostic signs and symptoms, clinical course, epidemiology, genetic mechanisms (with their impact on the brain), pattern of communication, mobility, daily activities, nutrition, and other care needs. The ethical and legal issues in providing care for people with Huntington disease, as well as existing and preferred services, are also covered within this component of the module.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the neurobiology of abnormal mental states in common neurodegenerative disorders so that they can apply this knowledge to improve patient outcomes. Identify the different presentations of Huntington disease;
- Develop a structure for assessment and management of people who have neurodegenerative disorders which reflects a critical understanding of the literature and well-developed clinical reasoning. Understand the differential diagnosis between Huntington disease and other neurodegenerative disorders;
- Work with both neurological and psychiatric ideas to develop an integrated model of these disorders leading to an enhancement of clinical practice. Understand the methods of investigation and diagnosis, as well as the management options available to patients with Huntington disease, and apply them to clinical practice;
- Provide a critique and synthesis of the existing scientific literature and apply this to practice. Critically appraise the scientific literature on the clinical and research aspects of Huntington disease.
Credits
20 credits
Module Attendance Required
3 day - block teaching
Module Dates
- Other Neurodegenerative Disorders component: 22-24 November 2022
- Huntingtons Disease component: 6-8 February 2023
Assessment
- Other Neurodegenerative Disorders component: one 1500 word essay - January (50%)
- Huntingtons Disease component: one 1500 word essay - March (50%)
Module Leads
- Dr Aaron Sturrock - other Neurodegenerative Disorders component
- Alexandra Fisher - Huntingtons Disease component
Stand Alone Course
This module can also be taken as a stand-alone course if required. If taken as an individual module you will receive a certificate of attendance for CPD purposes.
Fee if taken as a stand alone course
For information on fees please contact the Programme Administrator. Please note - no masters level credits are available for this module unless taken as part of the MSc, PGDip or PGCert in Clinical Neuropsychiatry programme.
Entry requirements if taken as a stand alone course
For information on requirements please contact the Programme Administrator. You are encouraged to get in contact no later than 6 weeks before the start date of the module to ensure we can consider your application.
More information
Please contact the Postgraduate Administrator, +44 (0)121 415 8118, clinicalneuro@contacts.bham.ac.uk