Hematolymphoid Pathology 2024

Unlocking the Mysteries of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms - Team 2

Media Type: Infographic

Summary

Our assignment was created on the topic of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), which is a set of blood disorders noted by uncontrolled proliferation of blood cells in the bone marrow. MPNs are classified into polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), primary myelofibrosis (PMF), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). MPNs arise from gene changes in blood stem cells in the bone marrow, causing overactive signaling within the cell to induce excessive cell growth. MPN symptoms vary among different types, yet common symptoms include fatigue, anemia, and increased risks of bleeding or clotting, along with other issues in peripheral organs like the liver and spleen.

Getting educated on MPNs is important because MPNs can deteriorate into more severe conditions like strokes and heart attacks resulting from bleeding and abnormal clotting, as well as acute myeloid leukemia. MPNs complications significantly reduce life expectancy. Early diagnosis, risk factor identification and post-treatment management are critical to improve patient outcomes. Treatments, including bone marrow transplants, are lifesaving, and national registries play a critical role in finding patients' donors, supporting patients and bringing successful treatment outcomes.

We chose to create an infographic on MPNs as it helps simplify and visually present complex information, making it accessible and digestible to audience without medical knowledge background.
Our infographic contains key features of MPNs, including general information with population statistics (epidemiology), genetic and epigenetic factors behind MPNs (pathogenesis), symptoms, impact (complications), outcomes (prognosis), risk factors and treatment options. We have also included interactive links to educational resources and definitions of key terms to make the content more understandable for the audience without prior medical knowledge.

We hope to educate the general audience about MPNs, fostering understanding and empathy, making MPNs less intimidating and more relatable to everyone.

Keywords: Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs), Blood Disorders, Infographic Education, Genetic and Epigenetic Factors, Disease Management, Patient Outcomes

Exploring Lymphomas - Team 26

Media Type: Infographic

Summary

We created an infographic comparing and contrasting Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas along with a section to “test your knowledge” and an attached answer key. We chose to use this format as it is simple and eye-catching and would be something that we would personally use to aid in our studying on this topic. Another format, such as a vlog, may be time consuming and dissuade students from exploring the PULSE assignment to completion. Practice questions are often very valuable to gauge how much one knows about a specific topic but are often hard to find. Our target audience is future students in pathology 3500, and we believe that having the students test their knowledge would further enhance the retention of the information they just learned from the infographic. Most of the terms used in this infographic are broken down to their simplest terms or have a definition to accompany them. We expect students to know some scientific terms, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and therefore did not elaborate further.

Keywords: Non-Hodgkins, Hodgkins, Lymphoma, Cancer, Lymph Nodes

Hematolymphoid Pathology: The Ebbs and Flows Of White Blood Cells - Team 28

Media Type: Infographic

Summary

The topic of our assignment is both non-neoplastic and neoplastic disorders of white blood cells. We chose this topic to be taught in an infographic format as it gives the reader access to all the information right in front of them, all at once. With this format, readers can easily jump around the infographic, exploring different topics and easily compare different white blood cell disorders. We compared different cases of too many versus too few white blood cells, as well as broad classifications of cancers associated with the bone marrow and lymph nodes. This topic was found to be very challenging during the semester, and by clarifying concepts in layman's terms, we aim to support future Pathology students by providing a visually appealing format to enhance learning and understanding of the material. Choosing an Infographic format for our assignment allows us to break down complex concepts into digestible chunks. Additionally, infographics have a visual appeal that makes complex information easier to understand and tends to be more engaging than text-only content.

Keywords: Leukocytosis, Leukopenia, White blood cells, Leukemia, Lymphoma

The ABCs of WBCs- Hematopoiesis and leukemias - Team 35

Media Type: Presentation

Summary

Our PULSE assignment was centered on creating an engaging and informative educational resource aimed at teaching pre-medical students the basics of hematopoiesis and some major subtypes of leukemia. We selected to create the resource using Prezi software. Additionally, we used large-language models (LLMs) to help filter and organize information on the subject, ultimately allowing us to create a digestible yet informative summary of some of the many complexities of leukemia. This approach not only simplified the complex topics, making them easier to understand, but also allowed for effective comparison between several subtypes of leukemia, empowering our audience to gain a comprehensive understanding by encouraging the readers to s to compare and contrast. Additionally, we strategically implemented knowledge check questions throughout our resource. These questions are designed to be completed as the student navigates the resource, intending that they will help keep engagement and interest will high.

By adopting a systematic approach of presenting overarching concepts and then branching out into specific subtopics, we aimed to provide a solid foundation for individuals with variable levels of prior knowledge and previous exposure to pathologies of the hematolymphoid system. This method enabled even those with limited understanding to quickly grasp the fundamentals and further develop their comprehension of pathology.

Furthermore, we made a concerted effort to tailor and streamline scientific language, limiting obscure acronyms and technical jargon in favor of clear and concise explanations. This approach was designed to encourage active engagement and prevent readers from becoming overwhelmed or disengaged upon initial engagement with the resource.

Understanding leukemia holds significant importance for medical professionals and the general public. It serves as a cornerstone for early detection, optimal treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to navigate this complex disease landscape, we strive to contribute to a broader understanding of pathology and foster a culture of informed decision-making in healthcare.

Keywords: Leukemia, Lymphoid, Myeloid, Hematolymphoid, White Blood Cell, Cancer

From Mutation to Manifestation: The Pathology of Sickle Cell Disease - Team 43

Media Type: Infographic

Summary

Our topic focuses on the pathology of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a disorder of red blood cells. This topic was selected upon the introduction of SCD in the Hematolymphoid Pathology lecture. An infographic format was chosen for its visual appeal, simplified information, and versatility. Understanding the prevalence of social media use among students, we supplemented this infographic with social media posts, to facilitate additional learning across multiple platforms (print poster, digital infographic, social media). More information on the topic and medium selection is provided in question 6.

SCD is a genetically inherited condition that results in changes to hemoglobin molecules, giving them a characteristic sickle (curved) shape. This disease has a large global burden primarily impacting nations in Africa, the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Symptoms of SCD include a shortage of red blood cells, increased risk of organ damage, or bouts of sudden severe pain. This is due to the abnormally shaped red blood cells blocking blood vessels, or causing inflammation. Diagnosis of SCD is done through blood, genetic and prenatal testing. Sickle cell disease is primarily treated with oral and intravenous medication, or via stem cell transplants.

This infographic serves an important purpose in providing education about SCD and its manifestation, while challenging students to expand their understanding of concepts taught in hematolymphoid pathology. This is a versatile tool compatible with various formats, which can impact students by helping them grasp the complexity of blood-related complications. The use of social media posts to support and bring attention to our infographic is relevant to current trends in research dissemination, showing its potential to impact students.

Keywords: SCD, Hematolymphoid Pathology, Blood Disorders, Social Media