Virtual microscopy has an established role in medical practice and education across all medical disciplines. It provides economical and pedagogical advantages, albeit with some shortcomings.
We randomly assigned two groups of second-year medical students from the University of Tabuk in KSA to use either conventional light or virtual microscopy practical sessions. The students' perceptions were assessed by written and practical exams. Students in the virtual microscopy group performed better than those in the light microscopy group in both practical and written exams, as reflected by their more-uniform performance and less-scattered grades. The virtual microscopy group had the advantage of optional online off-campus access to study materials, which they spent an average of 2.5 h reviewing. Virtual microscopy is a valid educational tool that can augment conventional microscopy in pathology practical sessions, and its application is convenient for both students and staff.
Objectives
Hydatid bone disease is a zoonotic disease caused mainly by
Echinococcus granulosus
. Middle Eastern, African, and Mediterranean populations are endemically affected. Hydatid disease of the bone is a rare clinical condition that affects people with a history of animal contact. This research aims to revisit clinical presentations of hydatid cystic disease in the skeletal system.
Methods
Data of all clinical cases with hydatid cystic disease of the skeletal system, presenting between 2011 and 2016 were collected. Clinical manifestations and radiographic and histopathological reports were reviewed, and the patients were followed for a period of 12–22 months.
Results
Two patients had hydatid disease in the spine, one in the pelvis, one in the sternum, and one in the femur. The symptoms were suggestive of pathological fractures and bony deformities. Spinal hydatid disease presented with nerve root compression and paraparesis in one case, and radicular pain in the other case. Sternal involvement of hydatid disease presented with pain and deformity, while femoral involvement presented with deformity and fracture. Surgical resection with a pre- and post-surgical anthelminthic course and application of the puncture, aspiration, injection, and aspiration (PAIR) technique were completed in four cases. One case showed residual disease during follow-up visits.
Conclusions
Hydatid cystic disease of the skeletal system is a rare presentation of a common disease. A multidisciplinary approach is optimal for the management of these cases. Long-term follow-up is mandatory to prevent complications and recurrence, and to monitor residual disabilities.
Medical education as a profession is a legitimate offspring of Flexner’s report in 1910. It strived to excel in preparing future doctors and increasing the competency of medical practitioners. We provide a scientific critique of Flexner’s report, displaying its merits and shortcomings and shedding a spotlight on Sudan’s medical education milestones and its current strive for excellence and innovation in curricula designing, accreditation, graduate competencies, staff professional development, and quality improvement. Since the publication of this inspiring study, a global effort has been launched to improve the quality of health system policies and health professions’ competency through education. All stakeholders now seek fundamental reform in medical education in Sudan to improve its quality and trustworthiness. Based on this study, our impost does not necessarily propose following its footsteps but instead evaluates its stimulating role in planning and intervention.
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