The aim of the autopsy course is to provide the knowledge necessary to perform a necropsy on small and large animals and how to recognize, describe and classify (anatomical-pathological diagnosis) the lesions of the organs and of the apparatus and how to correlate such modifications to their cause (aetiology) and their development (pathogenesis). In this way the student acquires skills to perform necropsy by using techniques to dissect the carcasses, extracting and dissecting the various organs and other competences in the macroscopic recognition of lesions in sampling techniques, sampling of tissues and biological material in order to perform histological, cytological, bacteriological and toxicological investigations. At the end of the course the student will be able to compile a final report with the elaboration of one or more differential diagnoses focused on recognizing the cause of animal death.
Learning assessment
Pratical examination – necropsy
The student has to be able to perform a necropsy of different animal species, to compile a final report with the elaboration of one or more morphological diagnoses, aimed at elaborating a conclusive judgment (epicrisis) to establish the cause of the animal''s death.
In addition, the student has to demonstrate:
- ability to integrate the knowledge of pathological anatomy and autopsy courses
- describing of what has been learned in a simple and clear way through using correct and appropriate scientific terminology
- development of independent opinions about diagnosis of pathological lesions
-communicative ability with the owner of the animal and the veterinary colleagues