The course in the Small Animal Section consists of exposure to the Diagnostic Services of MJR-VHUP, namely clinical pathology, anatomic pathology (necropsy service), parasitology and microbiology.  The course is focused on development of clinical pathology skills and a practicum learning how to perform necropsies and interpret findings.  A portion of the rotation is also directed towards skill development in parasitology and microbiology.

The bioanalytical pathology portion, which comprises clinical pathology, parasitology and microbiology, will be divided into microscopy, discussion, and online interactive lesson sections. During the microscopy section, students will work with the supervising clinical pathologist or resident in the evaluation, interpretation, and reporting of cytologic specimens and blood film reviews. Discussions involving parasitology and microbiology will also include treatment options and best practices. Online lessons include work in parasitology, clinical pathology and microbiology.

Students are also required to perform necropsies, write necropsy reports and to familiarize themselves with the pathophysiology, histopathology and the clinical manifestations of various disorders encountered. Participation of students in presentation and discussion of cases is required. Students will be evaluated based upon enthusiasm, effort, ambition, and advancement in pathology knowledge as evaluated through the directed group discussions, necropsies, microscopy sessions and clinical competency outcomes assessments. A short paper is required.

There is a web-based introduction to VPTH710 Diagnostic Services and VPTH770 Diagnostic Services Elective, which students must review prior to the start of their rotation. Students may find this introduction by logging in to https://learn.vet.upenn.edu with their Penn Key and Vet Domain password. Please note that it will take approximately 3 hours to review the video and written materials on the website.