Course objectives: Combined knowledge from the fields of Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physiology/Pathophysiology will be employed in order to understand the biochemical methods used for the identification and measurement of biomarkers in various pathological conditions, as well as, to evaluate their clinical value in the prognosis, diagnosis and monitoring of disease.

Course content: Basic principles of analytical methods in Clinical Chemistry. Biological samples collection, pre-analytical factors and reference values. Evaluation and quality control of laboratory results. Plasma proteins. Clinical enzymology. Laboratory evaluation of renal and hepatic function. Fluid and Electrolyte Homeostasis. Acid-base balance, blood gases. Disorders of carbohydrate metabolism. Lipids-lipoproteins (metabolism, disorders and diagnostic significance). Endocrine system (disorders and diagnostic approach). Tumour markers. Molecular diagnostics.

Teaching format: Teaching is implemented through lectures and tutorials, where clinical cases are investigated and discussed. On-site visits to the Biochemical (Clinical Chemistry) Laboratory of the Hospital allow students to familiarize themselves with its structure and mode of operation.

Learning outcomes: Upon completion of the Clinical Chemistry course students should: a) have adequate knowledge and understanding of the potential value and limitations of commonly available biomarkers, b) have the ability to select biomarkers that are appropriate for disease diagnosis and management of treatment in individual patients, and c) be able to interpret the results of these investigations correctly.

Hours of training per student: 78

Semester: 4th

ECTS: 3