Human reproductive biology

Lectures: Three sessions / week, 3 hours / session

This course is designed to give the student a clear understanding of the pathophysiology of the menstrual cycle, fertilization, implantation, ovum growth development, differentiation and associated abnormalities. Disorders of fetal development including the principles of teratology and the mechanism of normal and abnormal parturition will be covered as well as the pathophysiology of the breast and disorders of lactation. Fetal asphyxia and its consequences will be reviewed with emphasis on the technology currently available for its detection. In addition the conclusion of the reproductive cycle, menopause, and the use of hormonal replacement will be covered.

Emphasis on quantitative techniques, when applicable, including modern approaches to fetal surveillance and in vitro fertilization as well as prenatal diagnosis will be employed.

Each lecture will be complemented by a brief clinical pathologic conference (CPC) emphasizing relevant clinical applications of basic principles discussed in the lectures.

Weekly thought questions will be assigned and a multiple choice final examination is given.

The course is graded Pass/Fail for M.D. students, and A/B/C/F for graduate students.

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