OPTH 505 Advanced Oral & Maxillofacial Histopathology

Credits: 1 to 2
This course provides a presentation of advanced concepts in oral and maxillofacial histology and histopathology for periodontology residents. The focus is on gaining an understanding of the histologic basis for the clinical appearance of normal oral tissues and selected pathologic alterations of oral tissues with special emphasis on those diseases that affect the gingival tissues, periodontium and periradicular bone. This basic understanding is essential to the fact that rational treatment of oral diseases can only proceed on the basis of accurate diagnosis and a sound understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of the disease process.

Each resident will use a microscope to study microscopic slides. During the classes cases selected from a study set will be discussed with the instructor at the microscope. Each resident will have previously studied the selected cases and will be prepared to discuss the histopathologic features, the diagnosis, and the significance of the diagnosis. The students are expected to build on the diagnostic skills and knowledge acquired during the oral and maxillofacial clinical-pathologic conferences presented earlier in the graduate curriculum.

Graded: Pass/No pass
May be taken only once for credit