Demonstration with Equipment

New Tools for the Pathology Curriculum: Case-Based "Virtual Microscopy"

Michael O. Driscoll; Anne Linton, Shelley A. Bader, Ed.D., Donald S. Karcher, M.D.
George Washington University, Himmelfarb Library

Abstract:

This CD-ROM program is designed to bridge the gap between the pathology and morphology of disease and clinical patient management. Users evaluate and manage a patient by selecting and interpreting laboratory, radiographic, and other studies, and initiating appropriate morphologic exams for each case. Each patient featured in the nine cases presents with different symptoms:

	Case 1:	Fatigue and Pallor
	Case 2:	Fatigue and Dizziness
	Case 3:	Nosebleeds and Arthritis
	Case 4:	Fatigue and Nosebleeds
	Case 5:	Fever and Fatigue
	Case 6:	Fatigue and Routine Visit
	Case 7:	Fever and Night Sweats
	Case 8:	Lump Under Arm
	Case 9:	Aches and Pains

Microscopic images of specimens are presented to the user, who can view these images at successively higher magnifications, thereby simulating an examination under a real microscope. The user can move around the stage using scroll bars and can point and click on areas of interest for viewing. When the exam is complete, the user may request labels to appear that overlay the images and point out significant features, as well as view the pathologist's and radiologist's written reports.

At various points in each case, users are directed through "mini tutorials" to elaborate on aspects of the diagnostic tests and disease entity. These tutorials contain questions with immediate feedback, allowing the user multiple attempts to arrive at the correct answer before proceeding. Questions test the user on selection and interpretation of diagnostic studies, development of a differential diagnosis, determination of the diagnostic studies, and development of a disease process. Each case concludes with several open-ended questions for further study and/or later group discussion.

Benefit in Attending Session:

Session attendees will have the opportunity to review a computer program that integrates the scientific and clinical practice of pathology and that combines the best features of laboratory learning with simulated computer cases.

Donald S. Karcher, M.D.
School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 
The George Washington University Medical Center, 
Washington, DC
 
Shelley A. Bader, Ed.D., Anne M. Linton, M.S.,
George Washington Univ.
Himmelfarb Library
2300 Eye St. N.W.
Washington, DC 20037
 
202/994-1825
Fax Number(s):
202/223-3691
MLBMOD@GWUMC.EDU
MLBMOD@GWUMC.EDU