Blood,Sweat
AND
Smiles
A MEDICAL JOURNEY
Biochemistry
Biochemistry is covered in Haematology Immunology and Cardiovascular blocks. Dr Girish taught us in both system blocks.
In the H&I system block, we learnt about the metabolism inside a red blood cell. The red colour is contributed by the heme group in the red blood cell, it is also the oxygen carrying medium. Hence, it is important to learn about heme metabolism. We also relate the diseases with the absence of certain enzymes in the red cell metabolism.
In the CVS block, we were introduced to the lipid profiles of the blood. The absence of excess of certain lipoproteins, for example LDL, HDL and triglycerides, will lead to diseases of the heart and vessels. We also explore the clinical features of type 2,3,4 hyperlipidemias.
classifications of hyperlipidemia
cutaneous xanthomas on the palms
red blood cells that are broken down will be turned into bilirubin. it will be excreted through the feces.
classifications of hyperlipidemia
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Lippincott's Biochemistry Review 6th Edition
Biochemistry textbook with Clinical Correlations By Thomas M. Devlin (7th edition)
Biochemistry with clinical correlations by Thomas M.Devlin
TGC Acquired:
Reflection:
Biochemistry was quiet easy to understand in the system blocks. It still requires mind-mapping, and drawing out the steps in the metabolism, but it is much easier to remember when compared to semester one. I am very happy that biochemistry is no longer an obstacle in my MBBS course.
I enjoy learning biochemistry as it is very relatable with other subjects like pathology and pharmacology. In pathology we learnt about the disease, and the detailed steps are explored in biochemistry, while pharmacology helps us treat this disease by countering the defect in the metabolism.
Biochemistry in CVS block explores the very common lipid disorder in Malaysia, for example high in bad cholesterol (LDL) and low in good cholesterol (HDL). This is due to our food preferences, livestyles and eating habits. Hence, it is very helpful for me to understand how the diseases work, as it will surely benefit me in my future clinical years and career as a doctor. I believe that learning biochemistry sets a good foundation and aids future doctors to correctly make a diagnosis.