PED 45023 - Medical Genetics & Genomics

Cr Hrs: 3, 6
Session Length: 2 and 4 weeks

PD

This is a face to face clinical rotation receiving 3 or 6 credit hours. The student should function with increased autonomy in patient care and must demonstrate competency in several of the Entrustable Professional Activities required for graduation. This elective offers an introduction to genetic/genomic medicine in a clinical setting with emphasis on the evaluation of children and their families with a variety of rare conditions, referred for genetics consultation in hospital and clinic settings. The student will learn to properly construct a three generation pedigree; to recognize and understand important information from patient and family histories; to perform a detailed genetics physical examination and to make use of a variety of clinical genetics online tools to aid in the diagnosis of rare genetic disorders and the interpretation of DNA test results. These results are from analyses of single genes, DNA panels, chromosomal microarrays, whole exome sequencing and others. The appropriate use and possible misuse of genetic testing in a variety of clinical settings will be discussed. The clinical application of state-of-the-art, online genetic and genomic resources are heavily emphasized. This is a block rotation which includes exposure to and evaluation of a variety of patients with genetic disorders. Weekly educational patient conferences are held as well as other specialty conferences and teaching rounds with genetics emphasis. Principles and skills learned during the evaluation and counseling of families with genetic disorders, including the importance of recognizing non-verbal cues and the challenges of carrying out sophisticated diagnostic testing in a resource limited environment are applicable to all aspects of medicine in the exciting new era of precision/personalized medicine.

Grade Mode: Standard

Instructional Method: Clinical-Elective

Location Offered: Memphis

Term Offered: Fall, Spring