Laboratory Diagnosis of Parasites

Dates & fees for 2011 will be posted here as soon as they are confirmed.

Please check periodically for updates

Course outline

This is a practical course with the emphasis on the identification of gut parasites by microscopy and includes methods for preparation of samples and an evaluation of commercially available kits. The use of staining methods for the identification of gut protozoa will also be considered. Practicals will be supported by appropriate lectures including lectures on the differentiation of Entamoeba histolytica from the morphologically identical E.dispar and the current thinking on the pathogenicity of Blastocystis hominis and Dientamoeba fragilis. Parasites associated with HIV and other immunosuppressive disorders will also be included, as will the isolation and identification of the facultative parasites Acanthamoeba and Naegleria. One afternoon will be devoted to the processing and identification of malaria, including the use of commercial 'malaria dipstick' tests currently available; and this is aimed at individuals who may find themselves having to identify malaria infection where it is not part of their routine work.

Staff of the parasite reference laboratory in the Department of Infectious & Tropical Diseases will give instruction on the course. A comprehensive laboratory manual is included and participants will be given, where possible, reference material to take back to their own laboratories.

Accreditation

Registration applied for with IBMS and the Royal College of Pathology for CPD.

Methods of Assessment

There is no formal assessment but at the conclusion of the course, a certificate of attendance will be provided.

Who should take the course?

This course is aimed primarily at microbiologists and others involved in the laboratory identification of human parasites.

Please return a completed application form along with an equal opportunities form to:

Registry
London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
50 Bedford Square
London WC1B 3DP
UK, Tel: +44 (0)20 7299 4648

Alternatively, by fax:

Fax: +44 (0)20 7323 0638

Or email: shortcourses@lshtm.ac.uk

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is committed to improve global health through its programme of short and full-time postgraduate study.