Structure and duration of training

The programme covers a minimum of four years’ training in anatomical pathology, including cytology. Irrespective of what earlier training may have been undertaken, candidates must write and pass Part 1 (LAB7007W) of the examination within 30 months of commencing formal training in anatomical pathology. Progression beyond 30 months is dependent on successful completion of Part 1. An additional (fifth) year is required for completion of research and a dissertation.

Curriculum outline

MMed Anatomical Pathology Part 2 - 60 credits
MMed Anatomical Pathology Part 1A - 60 credits
Anatomical Pathology minor dissertation - 60 credits

MMed Anatomical Pathology Part 2 - (outline)

This training programme forms part of the credentialling process of general practitioners as specialist anatomical pathologists. The Health Professions Council of South Africa stipulates the training requirements, and candidates complete the curriculum of the College of Pathologists of South Africa. Candidates undergo training in an HPCSA-accredited training unit in a teaching hospital linked to the UCT Faculty of Health Sciences. On successful completion of training, they write the final examination of the College and receive credit towards LAB7002W.
This course builds on the foundational knowledge in basic sciences covered in the Part 1 course. Material covered includes diagnostic surgical pathology and cytology; classifications of tumours; use of special stains, immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, morphometry and relevant molecular techniques in diagnostic anatomical pathology; pathogenesis and epidemiology of disease; and laboratory management including quality assurance and accreditation.

MMed Anatomical Pathology Part 1A - (outline)

This training programme forms part of the credentialling process of general practitioners as specialist anatomical pathologists. The Health Professions Council of South Africa stipulates the training requirements, and candidates complete the curriculum of the College of Pathologists of South Africa. Candidates undergo training in an HPCSA-accredited training unit in a teaching hospital linked to the UCT Faculty of Health Sciences. On successful completion of training, they write the final examination of the College and receive credit towards LAB7007W. The purpose of this course is to build a foundation of knowledge of the basic principles of pathology, including molecular pathology and autopsy pathology, and to train candidates in laboratory management. The course content covers cell (including gene) and tissue (histology) structure; embryology and development; principles of pathology; the molecular and genetic bases of disease; the principles of immunology; the pathology and the principles of general systemic and systematic diseases; the principles of the light microscope including photomicroscopy and fluorescent microscopy, and the principles of the electron microscope. The practical training includes diagnostic histopathology and autopsy pathology.

Programme Convener Contact Details:
Prof Komala Pillay, Division of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa

Email: komala.pillay@uct.ac.za

Telephone: 021 406 6162

Fax: 021 448 1789