MEL 8362: Infections in Cancer and Bone Marrow Transplant Patients

Dr. John Greene, Ana Paula Velez, Aliyah Baluch

An infectious disease approach to managing neutropenic patients, bone marrow transplant patients and patients with solid organ or hematologic cancers will be presented. The student will develop skills in managing patients with selected bacterial, fungal, and mycobacterial infections unique to this immuno-compromised population while working intimately with the microbiology lab. Appropriate use of antimicrobial agents including knowledge of therapeutic vs. toxic regimens will be emphasized. Also included will be critical care management of bone marrow transplant patients and other seriously ill cancer patients.

Midway through the elective a formal evaluation process results in the generation of written comments that are communicated to the student so that he/she can appreciate how his/her performance has been to that point. Daily, critical review of presentation of patient data will be incorporated into teaching rounds to provide guidance for the student to strengthen skills in those areas.