BI2HI1: Haematology and Immunology

Module code: BI2HI1

Module provider: School of Biological Sciences

Credits: 20

Level: 5

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1

Module convenor: Dr Natasha Barrett , email: n.e.barrett@reading.ac.uk

Module co-convenor: Professor David Leake, email: d.s.leake@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s): BEFORE TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST TAKE BI1AP3 OR TAKE PM1PY5 AND ( TAKE BI1CMP1 OR TAKE BI1BEC1 OR TAKE PM1PY2 (Compulsory)

Co-requisite module(s):

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite module(s):

Module(s) excluded:

Placement information: NA

Academic year: 2025/6

Available to visiting students: Yes

Talis reading list: Yes

Last updated: 11 April 2025

Overview

Module aims and purpose

This module will provide students with a comprehensive overview of two clinical specialisms, both fascinating and interconnected fields in the study of human health. Haematology focuses on the physiology and pathology of blood and blood forming tissues, while immunology examines the complex systems and processes that protect the body against infection and disease. Throughout this module, students will gain a deep understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts that underpin haematology and immunology. We will explore the production, structure and function of blood cells, the techniques used within hospital haematology laboratories to investigate and diagnose disease and the treatment and assessment of treatment of haematological diseases, including leukaemia and lymphomas. We will investigate the intricacies of the immune system, gaining an understanding of the central mechanisms of the mammalian immune response, such that you will understand how animals, especially humans, react to antigens and attack by pathogens. You will also be introduced to the main forms of immunopathology and gain an appreciation of how vaccines are produced and how antibodies may be used as 'tools' in clinical medicine and biological research. 

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to: 

1. Describe the basic organisation of the blood system (the structure and function of the blood cells and plasma, haematopoiesis and destruction of blood cells, haemostasis)
2. Explain the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of haematological diseases (such as anaemias, leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, bleeding disorders and thrombosis) including how haematological principles are applied to the diagnosis of specific diseases and understand the technical basis of diagnostic techniques of fundamental importance in haematology laboratories. Explain the principles and uses of blood transfusion.
3. Describe the different types of immunity occurring in a mammal (i.e. innate and adaptive/acquired), the physiological role of inflammation, the anatomy and physiology of the organs and tissues of the immune system, the roles of lymphocytes and other specialised cells, how antigens are recognised and neutralised by the immune system and how immunoglobulin diversity is generated.
4. Explain the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of different types of immunopathology (hypersensitivity, autoimmunity and immunodeficiency) and pathological inflammation, the principles and practice of therapeutic immunology such as vaccination, immunotherapy, anti-inflammatories and examples of practical uses of antibodies.
5. Technical competency and knowledge of practical skills used in a haematology and/or immunology laboratory. Apply biological calculations, analyse and present data in a physiological context.

Module content

Lectures will cover topics on blood cell types, morphology and identification; haematopoiesis; anaemia and haemoglobinopathy; transfusion science; leukaemias, lymphomas and myelomas; blood cell counting and automated identification; coagulation, platelet and coagulation disorders; innate and acquired (adaptive) immunity; anatomy of the immune system; development and function of B and T cells; cytokines and the